Birch! – Drama Queen (2024)
Despite having only one single streaming on Spotify, singer-songwriter Birch! is by no means a performing arts newbie. Embracing a passion for performance early in life, the Russian beauty showed natural talent in her piano and vocals lessons which led her to a world of musical theatre. She took her talent to the stage gaining several years of experience in performing lead roles and touring across Russia. Yet, it was her graduate education that contributed to her career in music. After attending university, Birch! relocated to Vienna eager to share her knowledge of and prowess in the music industry. So, quick history over, let’s get to the meat of this review: ‘Drama Queen’.
Tapping into the dark intimacy of Amy Winehouse with the obscurity of Amanda Palmer wrapped in a blanket of alternative pop, Birch! ensnares senses with intoxicating ease. One might opt to categorise ‘Drama Queen’ but I’m unsure if this is possible. A swirl of rock floods in from one side while dark-pop oozes through the opposite wall. Twirling about in a kaleidoscopic whirlpool, you are quickly lost in overwhelming sound.
Interestingly, while there is a mellifluousness beneath the charming tune, it is not all smiles in a brightly lit pool. Think of a whirlpool suddenly exploding into a powerful watery hurricane and you have ‘Drama Queen’. Crashing drums match powerful trumpets while the yearning strings sing with delicate haunting. Messy and dramatic it may seem, yet there is an organised chaos in the frenzied affair.
For me, the melody is a heart-pumping experience, but the vocals bind ‘Drama Queen’ with intricate sophistication. Showcasing her skill as a singer, no waiver or innocent slip exists as she holds you with bold dulcet tones. The thing is, while a strong vocal performance is evident, its polished refinement hides a shattering pound of fiery angst.
“’Drama Queen’ is a musical vindication that peels back the layers of a tumultuous relationship…’Drama Queen’ is not just a song; it’s an anthem for those getting out of a messy, dramatic relationship – the soundtrack to a long-awaited breakup…”
Find out more about Birch! on her Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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