The move from youth television programs into the music industry is a well traversed path. From Demi Lovato to Ariana Grande, many stories have resulted in great successes. And, while some failures do exist in the industry, it would seem that TV may be the perfect pruner for a longstanding career in singing. For Alex Newell, the performer most known for his turn as transgender student Unique Adams on “Glee,” this is a direction that will hopefully be a successful endeavor.
Debuting his first EP, “POWER,” Newell shines as the type of powerhouse vocalist necessary to stand out. Incredibly driven and entirely danceable, the record plays out like a homerun. With all of the retro-80s-inflected nostalgia of music past, the attitude presented by “POWER” could make Emma Roberts seem like an angel. What works for the EP is not necessarily in originality, but in style. Because some of the tracks are restyled or reissued releases by other artists, Newell’s ability to shine through is uncanny.
The first single off of “POWER” is “This Ain’t Over.” Most certainly meant for a dance floor at a club, the track pairs fiery beats with blasting vocals and is definitely the most mainstream release from his debut. If this track is a peek into the future of Newell’s style, it is most certainly welcomed. “This Ain’t Over” holds so much entertainment value that it seeps.
Other shining gems on the EP include a cover of Sigma’s “Nobody To Love.” An instant crowd pleaser, the track is Iridescent and bouncing. Newell’s uncanny vocal prowess paired with looping synths is the perfect combination of talent and entertainment. Despite only being a cover, “Nobody To Love” seems like a Newell original. It is the type of cover that only improves on the original instead of inundating it.
“Shame” and “Devilish” are two more standouts. Both tracks play similarly into a glamorous retro style that will leave audiences wanting more. Each are vivid in imagination and as they play out, listeners will believe that they are rocking out at a skating rink or a disco-tech and by the time each is over, they’ll be wanting more. These are tracks that are perfect for repeat listens.
With a sound reminiscent of Kiesza and a personality that is undeniably attention grabbing, Newell is a force to be reckoned with. His debut release, “POWER” is just a brief showcasing of what should be a bright future. For Newell, coming along with him for the ride means self-empowerment and creativity focused in on the things you love; “POWER” is not a shortchanging of this, even if it’s not the most original.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
