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The warmth of sounds coming from this new E.P. by Danielia Cotton cannot be understated; the slabs of structure and arrangement are sophisticated and perfectly executed.  A Prayer is only five songs, but these five tracks show how dynamic she is as a singer.

Listen to the movements of “Seesaw” – it’s a dramatic and fully-realized  piece that rocks amidst the orchestral elements; choral harmonies in the background – it’s a throwback to finessed singer-songwriter rock from another generation.  “Wasted In A Prayer” has a groove but some tasty guitars and a big sound that you can easily imagine on radio – anthemic yet not pompous; “Afraid To Burn” has that unmistakable feel of “modern rock” and a subtle yet always-welcomed use of ebow-ed guitar (and her voice, I think hits perfection here).  “Anything But Ordinary” builds slowly but then breaks into a hot vibe, then back again – the back and forth of tempo is on-the-one and “A Prayer” has that unmistakable Willie Mitchell influence – soulful, passionate and joyous.

So five songs may not be a lot, but these five songs are to be played over and over; savored and enjoyed.  Between the melodies and execution and Ms. Cotton’s voice, it’s a win-win.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

A Prayer is available now

http://www.danieliacotton.com/

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About the Author

Rob Ross

Rob Ross has been, for good, bad or indifferent, involved in the music industry for over 30 years - first as guitarist/singer/songwriter with The Punch Line, then as freelance journalist, producer and manager to working for independent and major record labels. He resides in Staten Island, New York with his wife and cats; he works out a lot, reads voraciously, loves Big Star and his orange Gretsch. Doesn't that make him neat?

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