Former Gloriana member Rachel Reinert released her solo debut album Into the Blue on Friday. Though it’s very clear she’s forging her own path, her time spent with the group is touched upon. One of the strongest songs on the album, “Dark Star,” is about how Reinert felt sort of invisible, and wants to show the world that she is her own person and artist.
Love is an overarching theme of this album. Whether it’s unrequited like in “Kiss on the Cheek,” falling for the wrong person in “King of Hearts,” or finding her forever happiness in “Ocean,” no doubt inspired by husband Caleb Crosby, relationships spark Reinert’s creativity. What’s most interesting about this album though is that production and even sometimes vocal performance take a backseat to lyrical content. Reinert seems to have wanted it that way, having co-written all 11 songs. She says that she wanted this album to reflect her truth and not necessarily be tailored to what might be the biggest radio hits.
If Reinert’s goal with Into the Blue was to let the songs speak for themselves, she was successful. Regardless of radio hits or album sales, this album is strong. For that, Reinert should be very proud. If you would like to listen to Into the Blue, you can do so here.
