Review: ‘Lo-Fi Soul’

‘American Idol’ favorite Haley Reinhart releases debut full length March 27

After receiving critical acclaim with her aching cover of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” in 2016, Haley Reinhart released her first album of entirely original songs, “Lo-Fi Soul,” March 27.

Reinhart first came into the spotlight as a contestant in 2011’s “American Idol,” where she made it to the top three.

She also has performed with Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, where her haunting renditions of songs like “Creep,” “Black Hole Sun” and “Seven Nation Army” showcased her ability to masterfully interpret modern songs through a retro lens.

Jeff Goldblum even enlisted her voice on his jazz album. The two performed a playful rendition of “My Baby Just Cares For Me” that captured the hearts of fans once more.

‘Don’t Know How to Love You’

The soulful fourth track, “Don’t Know How to Love You” blends the voices of Etta James and Aretha Franklin with a guitar break the likes of Pink Floyd. A combination that may seem weird on the surface, but results in an overall moving and powerful piece.

Reinhart’s mastery of soul balladry and its sweet and powerful dynamics shine in this love song about someone hopelessly in love but unsure if they fully communicate that to their lover.

‘Shook’

A sultry groove taking the form of a distorted ’60s girl band, “Shook” demands dimmed light, snapping and hip swaying.

“I can’t stop this dirty linen/ shaking my head from left to right/just throw me in the wash, baby/ ’cause it’s been a night.”

Trust me, just listen.

‘Baby Doll’

Probably the most modern sounding of all the tracks, “Baby Doll” ends the album with ’90s harmonies and drum heavy instrumentals.

A mysterious love song, Reinhart refers to herself as Baby Doll, telling her lover to take care of her.

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