Christiana - newcomb

Christiana

Newcomb
self-released; 2014

3.5 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Christina Newcomb is one of those artists who seem to have music in their blood. When she was eight years old she started taking voice lessons, was writing songs in high school and recently released a three song EP entitled Taking Off. Despite being only being three songs the EP showcases the innate talent of Newcomb as well as her versatility.

Newcomb collaborated with a slew of musicians who contribute cello, upright bass, guitar, banjo, and drums to bring her songs to life. The rich variety of instrumentation is a very welcome aspect to the songs but the undeniable star of the show is her vocal work. Newcomb has a voice that is inarguably pleasant to listen to. She has a dynamic voice that demands your attention.

The EP starts with “Headlights” which is a poppy song that combines banjo, cello, bass, guitar, drums and more into stew of pleasant, warm sounds. Out of the three songs this is the one the felt the most “single” worthy. The verse is catchy but hook on the chorus will be stuck in your head.

The second track “Sunny Side Up (The Egg Song)” has a bit of 1950’s pop vibe going on. It’s upbeat, infectious and besides Newcomb’s voice features a prominent upright bass that couldn’t have been more perfect for the track. The last track “What I Deserve” is a heartfelt, melancholy songs that revolves around a lone piano and Newcombs voice. A fitting last track that  was written last year when Newcomb returned from a service trip to Costa Rica. She lived at a rehabilitation shelter for girls who had been sold into sex trafficking. According to Newcomb The message of "What I Deserve" is to tell girls that they don't need to base their self-worth on what men think about them, and that there's a better life waiting for them.”

Taking Off is a fine EP but more importantly it's a fundraiser project for Seeds of Hope, a non-profit organization that provides safety and rehabilitation for sexually exploited, trafficked or at-risk children in Costa Rica. If you can spare it, take a listen and contribute.

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