By Poppy Tohill

Released June 23rd, 2014

Although performing original songs in rock/blues duo, Pretty in Blueonly lasted a few months, the project gave New York, sultry vocalist and songwriter, Ashley Xtina the courage she needed to begin her journey as a solo artist. Since her solo debut in January 2014, her song‘Dream' has won "Honourable Mention" in the American Song-writer Magazine Lyric Contest and she has also featured at numer-ous well known New York City venues such as Rockwood Music Hall andPianos.

Last month, June 23rd saw the release of this incredibly motivated and talented young lady's EP, ‘Stability.'Including four wonderfully written songs, the vocal range and execution by Xtina is extremely gratifying, as she transitions her voice from powerful to vulnerable and mysterious to sultry.
Heavily inspired by Emeli Sande's, ‘Our Version Of Events' and Adele's '19,' these influences run true throughout Xtina's daring melodies and intimate lyrics. Combin-ing a mixture of both pop and soul genres, the four tracks which make up ‘Stability' are a stew of complex, often contradictory impulses. With familiar and relatable break up stories the emotions prove raw and undiluted as each song takes you for an emotional ride through pain, loss, forgiveness and acceptance.

‘So Sorry' opens the EP beautifully as Xtina's smooth and striking vocals of raw and honest lyrics backed by a sweet piano melody, hit you hard in the heart.

'Angel' opens with yet another delightful piano melody, this time acting alone in the introduction setting the perfect backdrop for Xtina's passionate and harmonious vocals which stunningly fade into the song. Showcasing her powerful vocal talent as she begins singing delicately sweet transitioning to a raw and edgy ambience as the song continues, again telling another story of love, life and loss. 
‘Let Me Go' displays Xtina's bold and soulful vibe as she truly im-merses herself in the song stretching her voice to exceptional limi-tations beautifully blending sultry tones together.

Ending with ‘Things' was a perfect choice and ultimate highlight of mine from the whole EP. Following the three delicate and fragile songs before, the boisterous and dark intro of this tune comes somewhat as a pleasant surprise. Also again highlighting her vocal ability, Xtina's sultry, seductive tone helps fill the song with great layers of mystery.

An exceptional way to end what is a fantastic and brilliant debut re-lease from an artist I'd highly recommend you keep an eye on.

Currently streaming on Soundcloud, ‘Stability' is also now available for download on iTunes, so go get yourself a copy, because this definitely won't be the last you hear of Ashley Xtina. As her stunning voice and soulful tones are bound to be finding the sweet spot be-tween alternative rock and soul for many more years to come.

4/5