I Am Blake McGrath by Blake McGrath - EP Review

   ★ ★ ★ ★ out of 5

   Singer/dancer/hunky heartthrob Blake McGrath quickly used his new found fame following a successful run on season one of So You Think You Can Dance to jump straight into the recording studio. Following his debut album Time to Move, featuring standout pop singles “The Night (Only Place to Go)” and “Relax”, the artist worked tirelessly to share follow-up project Love Revolution (“When Love Shows Up”, “Heaven (Follow Me)”) to his fans in 2013.

   As his covers of tracks such as “Chains” and “Earned It” started receiving viral attention in 2015, McGrath discussed a desire to unleash his next full-length project. With preceding singles “Jackpot” and “Tattooed”, the result was his early 2017 extended play Vintage Tomorrow, showcasing a move away from the pop genre to try his hands at a mix-bag of influences: rock, funk, jazz. The end result was a mix-bag itself, but thankfully the artist has switched gears once again for his second EP of the year.

   For I Am Blake McGrath, the artist primarily dabbles in touching mid-tempo ballads, providing listeners with a more authentic viewpoint of McGrath and his growth. Preceded by the sincere “Missing You”, the five-track project emphasizes the artist’s immense vocal talent and ability to write a heartfelt number. Easing back on the dance production, relying on raw emotion instead, the end result paints a colorful, promising picture for the artist, while providing appropriate cuddle tunes for the winter months.

   Opening with lead single “Missing You”, the passionate track definitely sets the tone and pace for the entire project. The delicate, piano-driven ballad finds McGrath head over heels in love with his significant other, constantly reminded of their strong connection wherever he goes. The lovesick effort is carried by an emotionally-charged vocal performance that could be his best to date, and a raw, sincere message of longing that will resonate with anyone who comes across it.

   “Harder Than the First Time” is a somber, reflective moment for McGrath. His loving relationship is not as solid as it was in its early stages, he sees the dysfunction but knows no easy fix. While the artist recognizes and admits his own flaws – a controlling ego, not being supportive – but appears ready to sacrifice it all to save the bond. “We’ll fight through battles now, this is our war to win, can’t let it take us down, this time I will defend,” he beautifully belts on the convincing chorus.

   Love and "ever-after" comes complete with obstacles and challenges, new experiences and fear. McGrath confronts them all with his current flame on “Before You Go”, an uplifting piece of sentiment and support. The artist notes every single time he was lifted up, consoled and encourage by his significant other, now paying it forward in his man’s time of need. There’s no second-guessing or hesitation in McGrath’s words or actions, just evidence of devotion and commitment. 

   The Voice season 10 winner Alisan Porter unexpectedly lends her show-stopping vocals to “Sway”, a tender ballad where both artists share a desire to forget all else around them and remain forever in each other’s arms instead. Again, the tinkering keys of the piano are all that’s needed to make a statement, to lift the endearing lyrical content to dream-like heights. Though the effort is not as strong as the preceding tracks, the artist chemistry makes up for any faults.

   The short extended play closes out with the optimistic and inspiring “Love Myself”, an ode to self-appreciation and worth. A bit more upbeat and pop-leaning than the rest of the track list, the song has strong single and radio potential. “I don’t wanna be perfect, just trying to be honest, I know that I’m worth, put my fear on the shelf,” he proudly sings as he continues to look forward, while forgetting the past negativity and missteps. A promising closing for what’s still to come.

   I Am Blake McGrath sounds like a welcomed re-introduction to an artist who has taken his career down many diverse paths already. However, the new project makes a strong case for Blake McGrath having finally found true inspiration and reason to continue on. The five ballads highlight a keen sense for story-telling and desire for positive reinforcement in every life aspect. Whether it’s braving uncertainty, pulling yourself back up following an unfortunate setback, or just showing the significant other they are indeed loved, McGrath has impressively crafted a convincing, warm piece of music to go with each scenario. Blake excels with the dance/pop, with funk and R&B, but this new collection of tracks might be the best evidence to prove the artist has push through the darkness to find that ever-alluding light. It's a reminder of immense talents and a hint at career trajectory.

Tracks to Hear: "Missing You", "Harder Than the First Time" and "Love Myself"