Canadian singer/songwriter Raquel Cole first appeared on our radar when she released an acoustic video of her song Imogene almost two years ago and we have been eagerly awaiting a studio version.

Cole released her debut EP Personal Truth back in June and we were delighted to see that Imogene had made the cut.

Hailing from Canada but splitting her time between Nashville and Canada, Raquel has shared the stage with the likes of Carrie Underwood, Josh Turner, Brothers Osborne, The Band Perry, Scotty McCreery, Diamond Rio and more.

Personal Truth is a very country strong EP with a lot of female attitude and Country Rock Chic sass.

Kicking off with gospel track Country Soul, Cole immediately showcases her superb vocal abilities which challenge the likes of artists such as Carrie Underwood, Cam and Lucie Silvas amongst other phenomenal vocalists in the country scene. In fact, I would even say Raquel is the perfect blend of all the above named artists.

The title track Personal Truth has a dark country twist to it with a high powered chorus that proves that women in country music are bad ass. A track that could have easily been cut by someone like Carrie Underwood, I am glad Raquel kept it for herself as she is a force to be reckoned with. This energetic, up beat yet mysterious track would be killer live, the instrumentation alone would translate exceptionally well in a live setting with its sheer volume.

Stay The Night brings a softer side to Cole. The mid tempo ballad is a lovely story about dating a guy and all those feelings you get, wondering what each other are thinking and so on. A song that would fit perfectly on country radio, it is sad women don’t get the air time they deserve as Stay the Night would get a lot of attention.

Next up is one of my favourite songs of the last two years Imogene. One of the sweetest and quirkiest songs lyrically, this song is also sweet vocally and melodically – I love everything about it. The melody and chorus is so infectious with a great folk-anthemic feel. The best kind of catchy, this is an unforgettable song that truly stands out.

Space Between Us is a soulful country tune which again shows the talent that Raquel has vocally and indeed as a songwriter. Her vocal range is very impressive with some stunning riffs and tones.

The Moment closes the EP with a stunning, dreamy power ballad that you would expect to hear on a Kelsea Ballerini record.

Raquel Cole’s ability to tell stories in her songs is masterful and relatable and her shining vocals are radiant and sublime.

Personal Truth is country music perfection with tremendous, dazzling tunes that are wonderfully marketable and should be championed all across country music and beyond.

Listen to Personal Truth here

Purchase Personal Truth here