Sarah Cheng-De Winne – Brand New

Text: Joelle Chong

Multi-talented local artiste Sarah Cheng-De Winne released her debut full-length album Brand New, exploring themes like forgiveness, redemption, self-empowerment and love.

Co-produced with Los Angeles-based music producer Kavin Hoo, who has also previously produced for Corrinne May and Tanya Chua, the 13-track album consists of eight original songs, two covers and three bonus tracks, including a Chinese version of the song ‘Make Me Love You Less’.

Opening the album is title track ‘Parallel Lives’, a jazz ballad which accentuates Sarah’s luscious vocals. It is extremely pleasing to note the transition from jazz to R&B after the first chorus, which enhances the song’s likability.

‘Make Me Love You Less’ is an enjoyable pop, R&B tune which will have you swaying on the balls of your feet in no time. It is also the English version to the Chinese track ‘Yan Xu Dao Yong Yuan’ on the album. However, although the effort Sarah places in performing the Chinese version is commendable, her voice loses its richness when she sings in Mandarin, and in turn, fails to emote the song thoroughly.

Overall, Brand New is an eclectic mix of music genres such as pop, soul and R&B, peppered with urban rhythms and will hit home with many listeners.

Recommended tracks: Happy Ever After, Make Me Love You Less, Past Midnight (Remix)