The Life You Promised, the debut release from singer/songwriter/pianist Ashley Aucker, will be available everywhere April 26th. Following the release of her well received single "Alone" in November of 2010, the EP further explores Ashley's uncanny knack for gorgeous melodies. A very purposeful and mindful songwriter, Ashley's wit and sincerity are both readily apparent on the record.
But for as much as Ashley is a songwriter, she's also a piano player and an immensely talented vocalist. Nods to singers as varied as Regina Spektor, Rihanna, and Imogen Heap are evident throughout. All of this sits nicely within textured sonic creations that are infectious and just plain catchy. Ash has no problem putting the heaviest hip-hop beats right beside the most gentle vocal passage, and it still works. Ashley crafted her sound with the help of friend and producer Kevin Gales, whose industry credits include hardcore heavyweights Means, as well as the Dixie Chicks, and Fiona Apple.
Thematically, Ashley's songs are as wide ranging as the music itself. However, if there's a recurring theme in Ashley's heart, it seems to be one of gratitude. Ashely has a blog that is followed quite faithfully by some. A recent post included the lyrics of the Nicole Nordeman song Gratitude. Ashley added "Just in case someone or something or some comment or some blog or some news or some thought threw you for a loop this morning, don't forget that we are blessed beyond what we could ever dream...".
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Excellent Start| Posted May 30, 2011
Ashley's first EP is a pretty good way to get started. I really enjoy every one of the songs that she has on this album, and I hope that she keeps the same kind of styles on her future releases. Look forward to following her music.
Really like it| Posted May 15, 2011
I think that she could be a really great artist for years to come. Her style of music can be enjoyed by nearly everyone. Each song is different ahs has it's own unique sound. I hope she keeps going and keeps playing this kind of music.
Excellent| Posted May 15, 2011
Her first release is a great start. Her music has a bunch of different styles and I really like that. It is easy to find a song to fit the style of music that I am wanting to hear. I really like that she can change things up like that.
Very good| Posted May 10, 2011
I am pretty sure that my little sis hasn't taken this cd out of the cd player since it came out late last month. V ery good album for sure. I am quickly becoming a fan of hers and I think IU could talk the sister into buying her other stuff.
Beyond really good| Posted May 03, 2011
This is a "beyond really good" recording. I dont want to say great, because I think Jagged Little Pill by Alanis is "great". Blonde on Blonde by Bob Dylan is "great". So, this isn't "great". But dangit, its beyond good! I'm a new Christian, and just figuring out how to appreciate Christian music; new to this site as well. This doesn't sound like any of the records people have had me listen to. I disagree with the review that called it safe; at the very least, Ashley has the sound of a pioneer. She seems to have no desire to chase fads or what's in style, and yet the ar totally hip and cutting edge. I love this EP. Ashley Aucker is a special talent.
Good| Posted May 03, 2011
A good first release for Ashley. Overall I felt that many of the songs on this EP were a little linear, as if someone drew a straight line and the music and singing just swung gently along that line without deviating or exploring very far away from it. It was just kind of safe. I look forward to hearing future releases and development of Ashley's range and some more vocal exploration in the future.
great album| Posted May 01, 2011
ashley aucker's first ep, "the life you promised," is a very promising album. i have not been able to listen to it a whole lot, but the parts that i have, i have enjoyed very much. "my dear" is probably my favorite song.
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