Irish artist Roberta Howett has a long and fruitful affinity with music that can be traced back to the beginning of her classical training at 6 years of age. Growing up, she won multiple awards from Feis Ceoil and even took to the stage at Dublin’s National Concert Hall while still in early adolescence. Things took a turn towards new heights in 2004 when she made it to the final nine on The X Factor and earned acclaim from Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne.
Her song “Shadows” was featured by Today FM four years later, while her official debut single, “Beautiful Lies”, made it into Ireland’s top 30 chart in 2010. Having collaborated with renowned musician such as Ronan Keating, Sharon Corr and Bressie, as well as performing at events including Oxegen, Glastonbury and BBC Children in Need, this certainly has been an exciting decade for the singer/songwriter. Most recently though, she released a brand new track entitled “Water to Fire” on October 23rd.
It dives straight into a hard-hitting harmony amid fairly epic instrumentation, before toning down for some solemn but spirited singing in the verse. Things drift delicately yet determinedly towards a captivating chorus that comprises a wonderfully resonant refrain and a plethora of purposeful musical motifs.
The ensuing stanza is once again soft and enticing, unfolding at a pressing pace and absorbing with its intense emotion. The brisk beat is incredibly enthralling, while the occasional electronic undertone complements the pressing pianos and percussion perfectly. A vibrant vocal breakdown is very affecting in the final minute ahead of a climactic compelling chorus.
This is a passionate pop piece that’s loaded with expression and energy from start to finish. Its easy listening and accessible execution will be well received by the mainstream and makes it more than radio friendly. You can find “Water to Fire” for yourself on iTunes now.