RACHEL MODEST is a new Brit soul singer who’s just debuted with a powerful version of the soul classic ‘I Who Have Nothing’. Originally a dramatic Italian ballad, Ben E King turned into a soul hit back in 1963 and since then a whole horde of soul folk have tackled it – notably Linda Jones, Dee Dee Warwick and, of course, Luther Vandrosss. So, choosing it as a debut release is a brave choice and young Rachel makes a great job – enhanced by the sparse backing which features a battery of melodramatic brass. Her vocal is big and emotional – betraying her musical grounding in the church and gospel choirs in and around her native Sheffield
The single is released on Leeds-based ATA Records who specialise in analogue recordings – hence the organic, old school feel to Rachel’s track. The label, owned and run by musicians, takes its inspiration from the classic soul labels of the 60s and the good news is that Rachel’s ‘I Who Have Nothing’ is available as a free download via www.atarecords.bandcamp.com. A limited edition 45 and an album are on the way too.
