Release Date: January 24, 2020 Genre: Pop Label: Independent
Alex Porat’s debut self-titled EP is a striking introduction to the Toronto-based singer-songwriter, showcasing her delicate yet powerful vocals through a series of beautifully chosen covers. Released on January 24, 2020, the EP features five emotionally resonant tracks that blend elements of pop, balladry, and acoustic simplicity, allowing her voice to take center stage. With heartfelt renditions of songs by Jorja Smith, Kodaline, Calum Scott, Shawn Mendes, and The Greatest Showman soundtrack, Porat crafts a collection that highlights her versatility while remaining authentic to her style.
The EP opens with "Don't Watch Me Cry", originally by Jorja Smith. Alex Porat’s version feels deeply intimate, stripped back to a piano-driven arrangement that brings out the rawness of the lyrics. Her voice floats effortlessly through the song’s melancholic tone, making it a standout for those who appreciate vulnerability in music. The emotional weight of this cover sets the tone for the rest of the project, immediately pulling the listener into her world.
Her rendition of Kodaline’s "All I Want" continues this vulnerability, though with a slightly more uplifting twist. The song’s yearning lyrics pair well with Porat’s vocal delivery, and she manages to maintain the balance between hope and heartbreak that defines the original version of the song. While she stays true to the core of the song, her interpretation feels uniquely personal, marked by a subtle tenderness that distinguishes her vocal style.
"A Million Dreams," from the 2017 blockbuster film The Greatest Showman, adds a theatrical touch to the EP. Porat’s voice soars on this track, showcasing her vocal range and her ability to handle larger, more ambitious arrangements. The song’s sweeping melody gives her room to shine, and while it could be easy to fall into over-the-top dramatics, she keeps her performance grounded, which makes it all the more impressive.
One of the most moving moments on the EP is her cover of "You Are The Reason" by Calum Scott. The simplicity of the piano and vocal arrangement puts her voice front and center, and she delivers a rendition that is both soft and full of emotional depth. There’s a sincerity in the way Porat interprets the lyrics that gives the song new life, making it feel more like a heartfelt confession than just another cover.
The final track, a take on Shawn Mendes’ "In My Blood," closes the EP on a strong note. Her version strips back the production compared to the original, bringing a more acoustic-driven feel to the song. This approach allows the lyrics to stand out more, with Porat’s vulnerability once again taking center stage. She captures the struggle and strength behind the words, offering a refreshing take on a popular track.
Overall, Alex Porat’s debut EP is a promising showcase of her talent as both a vocalist and an interpreter of songs. While all five tracks are covers, she brings a fresh, personal touch to each one, making them feel like her own. The project demonstrates her potential to craft emotionally charged music and sets the stage for her future original works. With a voice that is as delicate as it is powerful, Porat has certainly made an impressive first step into the music world.