Edwards could have held her own on this season’s American Idol.

Glow’s five-song EP is the perfect gift for anyone who enjoyed the synth-pop sounds of the early ’80s and wants an updated version of it. Just a few minutes into the recording, it’s easy to hear that Brooke Edwards is a terrific singer who is worthy of glowing reviews. It’s nice to hear a CD with a singer who can actually hit the notes when she sings, and she sounds great over the band’s melodic sound.

Gabriel opens with the title track, a melodic mix of guitar and synthesizer with a catchy hook that makes it worthy of radio airplay. “Smiling Down on You” is equally as good, and the vocal performance is flawless; Edwards could have held her own on this season’s American Idol. Glow certainly stands out as a good local band, and I look forward to seeing them play live. www.glowmusic.net

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