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Friday, May 20, 2011

Rachel Holder, "Chocolate"

Songwriters:  Chuck Howard, Bob Regan, Kristy Osmunson

I'm faced with a bit of a challenge here.  How can I explain in coherent terms why I enjoy Rachel Holder's debut single "Chocolate"?  It's about a girl leaving a guy for chocolate.  He cheats on her, so she dumps him, and fills the void of his departure with... you guessed it... chocolate.

Sound hokey?  The concept may sound like something that can be easily dismissed, but let's imagine for a moment.  If an artist were intent on singing a song about chocolate, what characteristics could make it enjoyable instead of annoying?  A catchy melody?  "Chocolate" has that.  A performance packed with personality?  "Chocolate" has that.  Humorous lyrics?  A fun, upbeat arrangement?  "Chocolate" has that, along with all the makings of an oddly charming little ditty.

Of course, you can only enjoy "Chocolate" if you accept the fact that it's pure novelty - ear candy, if you'll excuse the pun.  It's not aiming for great lyrical depth - It's aiming to put a smile on your face, and maybe even get you to sing along.  Call it a guilty pleasure if you must, but this "Chocolate" has just the right confection of cheeky humor, subtle cleverness, and infectious personality to make it work.  Congratulations, Rachel - You made me like a song about leaving a guy for chocolate.

RACHEL'S SCORE:  7
(Scores are given on a scale of 1 to 10)

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