Ones to Watch: Quigley

    Quigley
    While the name Quigley might be foreign to most of you, fans of American Idol probably recognize the talented 22 year old Minnesotan singer/songwriter by her given name, Casey Carlson.  Carlson appeared on the popular reality competition’s eighth season back in 2009, making it through to the Top 36, where she was eliminated.  Now going by the name “Quigley,” Carlson has undergone a complete transformation, hooking up with English singer/songwriter/producer Vincent Frank (AKA Frankmusik) and signing to his LA-based record label, KillPop Records.  Quigley’s lush debut EP, Pleiades is now available on her official website as a free download.

    The EP takes it’s name from a beautiful star cluster found in the constellation of Taurus, and features three stunningly beautiful electro-infused pop ballads, all produced to perfection by Frankmusik‘s alter ego Vincent Did It.  On the EP’s lead track, “Imitate LoveQuigley‘s vocals float seamlessly over the Frank’s masterful ethereal production.  “Inkblot Game,” one of the EP’s clear standouts, is a hauntingly poignant ambient electro-ballad that brings out a certain vulnerability in Quigley‘s voice, all complemented by the song’s rich electronic orchestration.  “Making Plans,” the third and final track on the EP might very well be my favorite.  The downtempo, piano-lead electroballad spotlights Quigley‘s voice perfectly with Frank’s epically elaborate production backdrop enhancing the entire aural experience.  Truly stunning.

    Quigley Pleiades

    Quigley‘s Pleiades is a brilliant debut effort made all the more brilliant by the integral role Frankmusik clearly played in it’s creation.  While at times, her slightly familiar soundscape calls to mind that of Canadian singer/songwriter Lights, English folktronica superstar Ellie Goulding or even fellow Minnesotan electro singer/songwriter Owl City, Quigley clearly has talent for days and this EP is more than an adequate introduction.  Under the skillful guidance of a seasoned pro like Frankmusik, I can’t wait to hear what she does next!

    Download Quigley‘s debut EP, Pleiades, on her official site and check out the trippy and haunting video for “Inkblot Game,” which was written, directed and edited by Quigley herself, and features Frankmusik in a cameo.


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