Tasha Layton continues to share her testimony through stories of hope, grace, and trust on her latest EP, Look What You've Done. Far from a beginner, Layton has lived the struggles she sings about, making her story that much more genuine.
Christian music listeners most likely heard Layton last year in the middle of quarantine with her biggest song to date, "Into the Sea (It's Gonna Be OK)." Appropriately, she sang, "Though the mountains may be moved into the sea… it's gonna be ok." The soaring song showcased her powerful vocal range and masterful control over her voice. The song spent 28 weeks on the Billboard Christian charts and peaked at number 9. One might say the song was prophetic for the times. Fortunately, Layton is back with some new songs, ready to help all listeners through their fears, doubts, and insecurities.
Pop is necessarily a lightweight and fun genre, though, standing out might prove to be a challenging task. Look What You've Done shows the masters at work in its vocals, production, and songwriting.
Immediately, the title track, "Look What You've Done," immerses listeners in a clear and simple story: celebrating how God has freed her from her pain. Others can celebrate with her. Layton's inviting vocals, warm and raspy, deliver a triumphant song, "Look what you've done/Look what you've done in me." Couple this with the strong production--done by her husband, Grammy and Dove award winner, Keith Everette Smith--the track takes its listeners on a journey, and emotionally, the ending does not disappoint.
The next song, "I Got You," is a fun take on a crucial truth: God will always be by His children's side. Immersed once again in this project's warm sound, the synth and acoustic guitar combo is delicious. Easily, this tune is radio ready. It is positive to see Layton take on the more lightweight side of living as a Believer. Sandwiched between two more reflective songs, this track adds a nice variety to the project.
The final song has a tender title, "Brave Heart (Dear Daughter)." This song is gentle and sweet. Lifted by a piano, the lyrics describe God's comforting love when His daughters feel like they are breaking; still, anybody can receive this encouragement. The opening line, "My love is safe/It only gives/It doesn't take" is a comfort to anyone feeling like they have to perform for God instead of letting Him work through them. It is an uplifting track, and its simple approach musically will provide peace to any listener.
One question listeners may bring is if the EP overall feels too produced with not enough spontaneity. Some audiences may not be bothered by this, however, answering this question with frequent off-the-cuff musical moments might heighten this project's vulnerability.
Tasha Layton's Look What You've Done EP is well done, from beginning to end. Layton's voice is powerful as she interprets each storyline. With this stellar batch of songs, Layton should garner even more fans after this EP.
- Review date: 7/9/21, written by McKenzie Mitchell of Jesusfreakhideout.comRecord Label: BEC Recordings
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