Ariel Hill shows a new kind of soul with ‘Moonstruck’

Posted 5/17/22

By ROB DUGUAY

There are certain artists who can instantly grab your attention with their voice. There are classic examples such as Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye and Elvis Presley. …

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Ariel Hill shows a new kind of soul with ‘Moonstruck’

Posted

By ROB DUGUAY

There are certain artists who can instantly grab your attention with their voice. There are classic examples such as Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye and Elvis Presley. There’s also modern examples like Amy Winehouse, Beyoncé, Adele, Erykah Badu and John Legend. The way they sing can strike a chord with the listener and leave a lasting impression. Houston singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Ariel Hill pulls this off in her own way with her new album Moonstruck that came out via the Cranston based record label Pitch & Prose on May 17.

The record is a result of two years worth of songwriting and production conducted by Hill herself. The audial quality is incredible with each song sounding like it’s a Top 40 hit and I’m not exaggerating. While listening, it’s apparent that a high level of effort got put into every note, lyric and beat. This is very much appreciated while leaving yours truly a bit stunned due to the impressiveness. It’s not every day you hear a complete DIY effort sounding this clean, professional and profound and Hill deserves a lot of praise.

Musically there’s a different take on pop music being exhibited. A blend of neo-soul, trip hop, R&B and electrofunk makes this record jump out to the senses. It’s music that grabs hold of the ears, takes the whole body by storm and doesn’t let go. Honest, personal themes and a heartfelt vibe keep it real from start to finish. You gotta love it when a creative person puts their complete heart into their work and Moonstruck is a prime example.

“First” is the debut single off of the album and after diving into it I totally understand why. It’s a gem of a track that’s a soulful ballad while also possessing the ability to get stuck in the mind. Around a minute in, the beat hits in “Made Up” and the harmonies arrive for a song all about the complexities of relationships. Getting a little funky is “Dark Room” with a groovy structure and a few guitar strums being present. Other notable songs include “Back To Me”, “Dream In Peace” and “Honeycomb”.

Moonstruck could be the best album Pitch & Prose has released through their label so far. I’m also going to be keeping tabs on Hill via the internet to see what she does next. To do the same thing, you can give the album a listen and surf the web. Stream and purchase a deluxe edition of the new album via the label’s Bandcamp page at pitchandprose.bandcamp.com. Then log on to Hill’s website at arielhillmusic.com and follow her all over social media.

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