Born in South Carolina and raised in Chelmsford MA, talented singer/songwriter Caroline Gray, released her debut, self-titled EP on April 30th. The EP was produced by Jason Garner and recorded in Nashville, TN at Jason Garner Productions. It contains four songs, all written by Gray herself, and showcases her soulful, country vocals as well as her strong songwriting technique.
1.) ‘17’ – Written by Caroline Gray.
Impression: The song’s upbeat fun tempo and lyrics reminds you of being carefree and without worries during the summer before you go off to college- exactly what Caroline is probably experiencing now going into her final summer before heading to Nashville to attend Belmont University. You are anxious to go but will miss the things you will leave behind, especially your summer love; those memories will always be with you tucked away in the back of your mind. At the end of the song Caroline’s amazing vocal range is enhanced bringing the song to a close just the way it started, on an upbeat note.
Favorite Lyrics: How we once raised hell, being anything that we dreamed, at 17…
2.) ‘Why Waste’ – Written by Caroline Gray.
Impression: In the beginning of the song the soulful sound of the violin and the simple picking of guitar strings makes you feel the author’s sadness and unhappiness. The song is about a couple who are in an unhealthy relationship. The girl really wants the relationship to work but she soon realizes trying to make it work is just a waste of time and hanging around expecting things to change is not going to happen. The song ends with the crescendo of Caroline’s voice and instrumentals, showing the strength in the girl’s decision.
Favorite Lyrics: I should know by now to leave you alone and flee, shake you off of me…
3.) ‘Break My Heart’ – Written by Caroline Gray.
Impression: Despite the fun upbeat tone of the song its meaning is about heartache. The couple in the song have known each other for a long time, so instead of going through all the motions that will lead to a break up, they should do it now at get it over with because that is what will happen in the end anyway.
Favorite Lyrics: You and I have history but not the type of memories you wanna keep…
4.) ‘James’ – Written by Caroline Gray.
Impression: This is a song of infatuation and unrequited love. The girl is mesmerized with the boy and she relishes any attention he gives her. But she is young and lacks the confidence to tell him how she feels. Caroline’s voice is exceptional in this song, the chorus is powerful and helps the listener feel for the young girl who loves the boy from afar.
Favorite Lyrics: You took a step just so I’d fall but I never learned how to crawl…you charmed me with your crooked smile, your black hat and your genius style…
Throughout the EP, Caroline Gray shows maturity beyond her eighteen years. A very impressive premiere release. We have no doubt this is only a start towards a very successful musical career.
Caroline has a summer of performances lined up, including a slot as the opener for the New England Country Music Festival, which includes nationally touring artists such as Love and Theft and The Cadillac Three.
Her EP is available through all major online digital distributors, including, iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, and iHeartRadio.
Follow Caroline on Facebook, Twitter, and her website.
EP review conducted by Lorraine Frigoletto, contributing writer for New England Country Music. You can follow me on Twitter.