Sarah Petrella | 'Summer' | Review

Article Contributed by Cyrus Rhodes | Published on Friday, March 8, 2013

One can say that Sarah Petrella’s path to the release of her debut EP started from the moment she was born. She wrote her first song before the age of 10, and went on to immerse herself in musical theatre. Now, Sarah brings her lifelong passion for songwriting to the world via a three song EP, titled Summer. The EP features two original songs and a powerful cover of Pearl Jam’s classic, “Daughter.” Summer was produced by Geza X Gedeon, best known for his work on Meredith Brooks' smash hit, “Bitch.” From a very young age, musical theatre gave Sarah the greatest opportunity to gain exceptional performing skills and constant practice of her writing abilities. While she performed consistently in both California and New York, Sarah never left her songwriting behind. She made her way to Nashville at just 15 years old, where she wrote and recorded with several prominent musicians including famed songwriter, Don Goodman. From that point on, Sarah continued to pursue a very successful career in musical theatre, but kept coming back to songwriting, which is now her full time artistic endeavor. As Sarah says, “Songwriting is my true love and passion.”The EP gently takes flight with title track “Summer” the perfect good time intro groove  meshed against catchy harmonies, a full-tilt rhythm section and warm vocals from Petrella. Track 2 “Time Stand Still” is as smooth as silk in its rhythms, rich melody and well placed impressive Celtic fretwork and inviting guitar ambience with a grand slam chorus. This piece flows and ebbs its way through to emotional fruition making for an impressive follow-up statement. Track 3 “Daughter,” my personal favorite, serves up an impressive remake of the Pearl Jam Classic uniquely painted against gorgeous harmonies and hypnotic vocal grooves making for an effective yet compelling musical interpretation. As the EP slowly unfolds I can hear the musicianship from everyone involved is clearly above the bar, all built upon a thick as a brick rhythm section. Song for song the effective combination of Petrella’s voice, world class songwriting and top flight musicianship it’s never called into question. Now turning our attention over to Petrella-- as for her vocal abilities - she is quite impressive indeed. Her musical/vocal style is cut from the cloth of Celine Dion, Bonnie Raitt, and Shania Twain - but I will add she can go toe to toe with any one of them vocally. Petrella showcases a crystal clear vibrato, with an appealing mezzo-soprano persona. All of this makes for a strong and confident vocal ability across the board. I especially like how her voice just sort of flutters melodically with the music. This latest 3 song EP teaser from Sarah Petrella delivers 3 rock solid tracks all providing an interesting snapshot of an amazing artist with thought provoking lyrical wisdom with messages that are positive, passionate and extremely captivating.I like everything about Sarah Petrella. She's truly an infectious artist that possesses a "Gold Standard" voice, look, songwriting, appeal, talent, vocal passion and overall artistic presence. From start to finish these latest 3 tracks are an impressive short but sweet snapshot of music. The music is warm, marketable, uplifting and very passionate. The pin drop moments are amazing, and her falsetto is to die for. All songs are consistent musical experiences, each one possessing a unique personality, flair and signature groove. Note for note, song for song this catalogue is extremely likeable - very much like the artist herself.