In this day and age you don't have to take a gamble when seeing a brand new artist live unless an old school approach of avoiding all digital content is adopted. One surviving feature still intact is the differentiation between listening to recorded music and experiencing it live. For some artists the gap can be huge in one context where the studio impact towers above what can be transported to the stage. In other situations the live performance can show the music in such a different dimension that appreciation and enjoyment soars. The deciding factor lies within the scope of how an artist presents their music and the often innate talent in how a performance unveils. These thoughts raced through the mind in the wake of choosing to see Rachel Croft play live for the first time. Needless to say, the lingering effect is wow! what an outstanding performer.
The decision to attend her show at the Kitchen Garden in Birmingham was made in tow with the modern aids of checking her music out on the streaming sites. The sounds and style from a 2019 album and 2021 EP gave it the nod alongside a need to boost a slowish start to the gig year. So it was all systems go and the chance to check out a new artist.
Genres vanish into thin aware when you try to define her music. Detecting a hint of indie or a slice of folk is forthcoming but neither take hold. It transpired that she had caught the eye of UK Americana, which probably says a lot about her music as most souls struggle to describe that genre, especially this side of the pond. Yet that may be where opportunities beckon.
While keenly absorbing her two sets that stretched over the hour mark, strains of Southern Gothic flickered and at one point there was a resemblance to Hannah Aldridge. Then a detour to a bout of sass took hold, all within the most natural of performing styles. Ranking up there alongside a stylish demeanour was an impressive bunch of original songs. These followed whimsical themes right at the core of who she is as a person. All revealed in a candid setting.
To add some facts to the musical career of Rachel Croft to date. She cut most of her career experience in the city of York in her post-university years. A major life relocation phase is in motion as she has recently moved to London. A whole raft of opportunities there. A sample of her work can be found in the usual places, but it can be categorically said that this is merely the starting point. As the whole arts world moves back into the in-person form, it is duly hoped that she has the means to get gigging and out on the road. There are so many willing fans of highly crafted-absorbingly presented singer-songwriter music out there who will surely tap in.
Not only did Rachel reflect her past in the music played, but the future was previewed too. Both in definite plans and tentative moves. The new songs sounded great and there was even a hint of a future Christmas hit. All that is left is for more people to champion this artist and see someone articulate a raw talent so well. The gamble to take in this Kitchen Garden show paid off handsomely. It also rammed home the point that live music can really project a talent and fine tune all the traits sometimes hidden in the studio. Rachel Croft is definitely someone to check out, and follow a no doubt prosperous future.