Singer-songwriter Kara Connolly is back with “California Queen,” a powerful and exalting alt-pop production that explores self-discovery, empowerment, and self-acceptance. Using her experiences with self-doubt and anxiety as a source of inspiration, Kara has managed to transform the dark moments of her life into a collection of songs that offer hope and encouragement.
Kara is a charismatic and versatile independent artist. Since the release of her first record, she has been praised by publications like Hollywood Life and Popdust, at the same time that she has conquered the hearts of many fans that proudly call themselves “Karakeets”. Her connection with her audience has gathered hundreds of thousands of reproductions on social networks and sold-out shows in venues like The Hotel Cafe and The Peppermint Club in Los Angeles.
For her most recent EP, Kara has decided to dance away her negative thoughts and proudly wear the crow as the “California Queen.” The record is a collection of alt-pop tracks that range from cathartic indie-dance songs to sincere and vulnerable tunes. As usual, Kara approaches her songwriting process with sincerity that creates intimacy between her and her listeners, but her verses have an undeniable empowering effect.
Kara mentions about the EP, "I wrote these songs almost as mantras to myself in my darkest moments. If you can at all relate, I hope this collection of songs reminds you that you are more than enough exactly as you are, without having to strive and without having to be everything to everyone." This message of self-worth and self-love is a central theme throughout the EP, offering listeners a sense of comfort and encouragement.
“California Queen” was mostly recorded in the middle of the pandemic, so most of the process had to be done remotely. She is the executive producer taking the responsibility from the very beginning, and she found the perfect collaborator in her talented friends like David Baron, who has worked with Lana Del Rey, Shania Twain, and many others, and Forest Glen Whitehead, known for his collaborations with Kelsea Ballerini and Mickey Guyton. The result is a meticulously elaborated sound. We can go from memorable hooks to high-energy vocals and dreamy guitars. The EP successfully merges modern pop sensibilities with a touch of 70s nostalgia in a refreshing way.
Undoubtedly, every song shines in its own way, but there are some tracks that deserve special mentions. One of the standout tracks on the EP is the title track, which is the perfect anthem to embrace life and celebrate the things that make us unique. It is a song in defense of self-worth and emphasizes the importance of living life by your own rules. Another notable track is "Emotional Vampires," a fun and catchy song that mocks toxic people, and it is a call to action to get away from them once and for all.
“California Queen” is the EP you need to dance to and let your spirit soar. Once again, Kara Connolly has created a record that resonates deeply with her listeners, sharing her vulnerabilities with honesty and optimism. Her mastery of melody, lyrics, and self-acceptance makes her the ultimate “California Queen.”
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