Auckland Country singer Kayla Rose (grand-daughter of the late, great Rusty Greaves, and niece to the late, great Kevin Greaves) brings us the follow up single to her recent release Drinks, the eponymously named for the parallel released EP, Dear Little Me.

We have here a classic Country track. We’ve got the mild, slightly below mid-range tempo anchored together with a chocolatey bass line intertwined for maximum glide. Professionally delivered indeed, I commend the rhythm section on the warmth generated from the bottom end.

Some nicely jangled – yet not trebly, wobbly or sharp – layered acoustic guitars roll out and take us to Nashville itself, with some great, light lead riffs and phrases popping into the mix. It’s well orchestrated and the composition is sweet and works. If Country is your bag, this is going to be a smile-maker of a mix and master. The kudos for the studio work – for the single and the whole EP – is aimed at Dan Cosgrove at DC Studios, here in wee little Enzed.

Vocally Kayla Rose delivers a soprano that’s tight and polished like teak. She’s got a really full, rounded timbre, the type of which I would liken to a cross between Missy Higgins and Colbie Caillat. This is just for term of reference: no copycats here. I really like her vocal and the voice she has to deliver it with. This is a singer with chops down to her ankles.

From the EPK I will give you Kayla‘s words on the meaning behind the lyrics: “This song was written for my younger self who had high expectations for where she wanted to be by age 23. She envisioned herself as a successful artist, in a loving relationship, and achieving all her dreams at a young age. It’s a song where I give myself credit by saying I’m not quite reaching all those goals yet, but I’m still trying and will give it my all to make my younger self proud.”

Retrospective thought can be cathartic and re-energising of one’s resolve, as in this case. Take a listen to the expressiveness Kayla brings to what she’s telling her younger self – and herself now, too. Really nice message.

Kayla needs to get on the road again and start touring the EP (I reckon), so here’s hoping we get an announcement soon. Meanwhile, USA followers of Flash-Trax, if you’re a Country fan, old New Zealand is continuing the vein of bringing you some genuine quality acts in the genre, so get on the Spotify or other preferred streaming platform of your choice, as this is out now. The review is in retro thanks to the recent issues this site experienced.

I envision Gore will go mad for this. Other Country singers within these shores should pay attention and add Kayla Rose to their radar for future tour partnerships. You know who you are. 😉

Kayla Rose, with Dear Little Me. Enjoy.