Chinese born and bred and now California based innovator and musical mastermind Raylee Forest has just released her latest EP. Entitled My World, the EP is produced by Grammy-Award winner Isha Erskine (Maroon 5, Ziggy Marley) and features five songs highlighting a variety of genres including rock, pop, electronic, metal and trip hop.
My World begins with the upbeat single "Fortune Teller". The song is reminiscent of early Lady Gaga and features shiny beats under striking synths and Raylee's signature vocals. The pop electronic track has a unique pre-chorus where the singer is whispering against invigorating rhythms. Soon the chorus hits and it is extremely catchy and explosive. Raylee sings lyrics questioning what the future will hold and who she will be. Then there is "Secret Garden", a lush and introspective indie pop track. Raylee's vocals are soft and warm, enticing the listener with every note. This dreamy song is filled with themes of nostalgia, magic, and childhood wonder. Lyrics that show these narratives include "We were dreaming big / In a big-big world / Whеn we open the gate one more time / Is the magic still there? / Do fairies ever age?"
"Fly" begins with emotive piano chords and an unconventional yet infectious verse. The song soon culminates into a soaring chorus complete with heightened sing-a-long worthy melodies over pop rock sonics. Raylee sings, "I was born to fly / Up high in the sky / I've done it a million times / Nah, I didn't know /What is fear?" reminding herself that she is strong and brave, even in times of dismay or mundaneness. The fourth song is a metal infused rock track called "Let Them Out". The song is dramatic and haunting, strange and all encompassing. Intense chord progressions, confident vocals and driving bass are all standouts in this song that chronicles the demons, rage and obsession that can live inside us. The conclusion of the EP is "Dream Walker" which begins with dreamy and stunning keys, bright guitars and downtempo drums. Soulful vocals and stacked melodies are intoxicating and the perfect conclusion to this musical oasis. Raylee sings, "Please don't wake me up / The Flowers are blooming tonight / Please don't wake me up / The stars are falling tonight."
Raylee Forest is challenging traditional pop music with her uniquely odd take on modern music. Her music is all engrossing and innovative while also feeling timeless. Take a listen to My World now and enjoy the amazing musical roller coaster.
Connect with Raylee Forest: INSTAGRAM
