REVIEW: Alexz Johnson’s HEART EP

 

In February, Alexz Johnson released her EP, HEART, and fans went wild, igniting social media. While a little slow to make this happen, I finally listened to the EP with my critical ear, and found that I didn’t just enjoy the tracks; they registered with me in a way that I wasn’t fully prepared for.

“American Dreamer” is an almost awe-inspiringly beautiful track. Coming over the speakers like a wave crashing against the shore, it is impossible to ignore Alexz Johnson’s booming, melodic vocals as she bares the weight of the inspirational lyrics. Everything about this song is optimistic and determined: take what life gives you, the good and the bad, and push on; keep dreaming. It’s a feel-good song, with such an “Americana” vibe to it, with a subtle reference to 80’s music (“The Tide Is High”).

As another single for the EP, “This Is Heartache” is noteworthy, in itself. In context with the rest of HEART, Alexz Johnson has cracked the code for writing/delivering a song about being heartbroken without churning out the same old “Boy meets girl. Girl and boy fall in love. Boy leaves girl. Girl is in agony. The end.” cliche`. The music is upbeat, the lyrics are pleading and emotional, and Alexz Johnson’s vocals are nothing shy of superb.

Seemingly making an attempt at a more soulful approach to a song, “Nothin’ On Me” is blunt, with exploration of the artist’s lower registers, with a chorus of gospel-like voices. Soul is the accessory we all wish we could wear with confidence, but aren’t sure if it’s our color, but Alexz Johnson wears it well; this melodic, bluesy style, with a classic rock-and-roll flare fits her like a glove.

Hearbreak seems to be a theme here, but not necessarily in the sense that most artists promote it. Continuing on with her soulful, bluesy edge, Alexz renders her tale of a lover who didn’t treat her right in “Thank You For Breaking My Heart.” I love this track. It’s full of emotion, and acts as a story of learning from heartbreak, hardening yourself, and moving on. Alexz’s vocals are ridiculously powerful. She is a complete power-house on this track, letting her vocals reach new heights, releasing an agony that she conveys wonderfully. If you check out any track on this EP, please, oh please, let it be this one!

One thing I really enjoy about HEART is the raw, melodic tone each track has. Unwaveringly honest and powerful, this EP encourages listeners to not only sing along, but to feel what is being sang about. Alexz Johnson is an artist who has a very recognizable voice, and her songwriting rivals some of the greats. HEART is more than an EP; it is a statement. It might say different things to different people, but one thing is undeniable: whatever it’s saying is coming through loud and clear.