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Review: Body Say No, Heart Say Yes | Ashley Allen

There has always been a small corner of my heart dedicated to energetic radio-ready pop. I drive around with the windows down in the summer singing Katy Perry and Ke$ha and “Call Me Maybe” and plenty others at the top of my lungs. And I proudly admit that.

On her newest EP, newcomer Ashley Allen joins this hyperactive dance party with a handful of songs packed full of sharp sass and undeniable hooks.

The opening title track “Body Say No, Heart Say Yes,” Allen struts in with a “whoa-oh-oh” clap-along chorus sweet enough to cause cavities. There is a brief instance where Allen attempts a sort of rapped chorus, which could draw from the co-writer/co-producer credits given to Cash Cash. It seems a bit out of place, not only because it doesn’t quite fit her voice, but also because it’s the only point on the EP where it happens. It’s over as abruptly as it begins, and doesn’t make the mark that I believe it was intended to. The acoustic version added to the end of the EP provides a much better representation of both Allen’s capabilities and the song’s accessibility.

“I’m a Dreamer” showcases Allen’s smooth voice, set to a plucky, upbeat electronic drum beat. As it grows to a chorus, her voice easily glides through “I’m a dreamer / and I’m dreaming of you.” Meanwhile, danceclub-ready “Touch Me” and “Let’s Go” are upbeat and clever and could easily find themselves on any Top 40 station.

Allen has a vocal talent that could fit into the mainstream mold without missing a beat, with a sound that has proven to have wild success already. So, we’ll be sure to keep an eye out for her.

Release Date: December 10th, 2013
Rating: 2.75/5
Runtime: 12:54 (+ 6:56 bonus versions)

Tracklist:
01. Body Say No, Heart Say Yes
02. I’m A Dreamer
03. Let’s Go
04. Touch Me (Take Me Tonight)
05. Body Say No, Heart Say Yes (Luke Shay Remix)
06. Body Say No, Heart Say Yes (Acoustic)


Written By: Eric Riley

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