The female voice in its many forms has evolved over the centuries. Musically and figuratively, it can be loud and outspoken or gentle and gossamer, but one thing that it definitely is not, is quiet. A new wave of female singers with voices that are sensual and delicate, yet powerful and profound, are sweeping across pop and electronic music. From New Jersey emerges the family, indie pop duo, bitter's kiss with Chloe Baker (singer/songwriter) and her father, Michael Baker (production/guitar/piano/bass/drums). The young Chloe Baker, is only just beginning her sonic journey.
Bitter's kiss is primarily an avenue for Chloe to showcase her immense talent not only for singing, but for songwriting as well. She grew up in a home where the air was always alive with music as her father maintained a studio, guitar collection, steady band and has been active in musical theater for years. With the guidance of her father, Chloe has crafted an album that promises to be an exploration of her soul.
Currently attending High Tech High School, an arts academy in North Bergen, New Jersey, Chloe has spent the past year dedicated to writing and recording her music. Using songwriting as a diary, she delves into her most personal memories and thoughts, creating a cathartic experience not only for the listener, but also for herself. Artists let their hearts tell them what to sing while pop stars let someone else tell them what to sing.
The duo's self-titled debut album is like swimming through the sea of Chloe's mind: treading water at some moments and feeling buoyant at other moments. The lead single "The Rope" dives into her feelings about the suicide of a cousin who came from a very religious background. The chorus line, "there's a quicker way to heaven if you can find yourself a rope" can be interpreted as a dark message or as a message of hope; it is never too late to reach up. Chloe examines the importance of remaining grounded in times of strife and finding your own personal ways of making life meaningful. Though religion is the answer for many, it is not the answer for all.
Chloe also sings the anthems of teenage melodrama as she emphasizes the mediocrity of suburban life and the woe of young love, expressing the fragile humanity of growing up. "Too Far Too Fast" is a response to how the change of her older sister leaving for college affected her and how time passed in the blink of an eye. The track "Lovin' Life" is a sweet kiss of hope, an upbeat reminder that though she sings of the darkness inside of us all, she has not forgotten to appreciate her life.
Though bitter's kiss is meant to showcase the incomparable talent of Chloe, Michael's flawless production and instrumentation does not go unnoticed. The soft, lilting melody of "The Rope" as percussion is slowly incorporated in due cadence washes over the senses in waves. The intro of "Too Far Too Fast" carries a tune that is reminiscent of a lullaby, soothing and sweet with a hint of sadness. On "No One Will," Michael reverts back to the simplicity of a strumming guitar and paired with Chloe's singing, it sounds much like a folk song.
Just like the teenage psyche, many of Chloe's songs are melancholic yet hopeful, also a reflection of the duality of mankind. Though young in age, their is a mature sophistication to her lyrics that combine the struggles of young adulthood with an ageless wisdom. Seemingly not her first time on this earth, Chloe is an old soul whose insightful words provide us with a moment of self-reflection and clarity. Already beginning her career with an elegance that is rarely seen in the musical careers of her peers, Chloe Baker will surpass the status of pop star as she has already become a luminary.
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