I Try by Rachel Modest

" This is wonderful. Once again ATA pull off a total winner and are fast making Leeds the Brooklyn of the UK."
- The Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show, BBC6 Music & BBC Radio 2.

Leeds Soul and Funk label ATA Records are proud to announce the first single from soul singer Rachel Modest. Available on 7" Vinyl and Digital Download, "I Try/Forbidden Love" is a showcase for her compelling vocal delivery as well as her emotive & touching songwriting.

"This is outstanding - so damn authentic! Sounds like it could've come straight from the studios of Daptone - and for this kind of music made today, that's the highest compliment I can give!"
- Lack Of Afro, Freestyle Records.

Sheffield born, Rachel Modest developed her unique vocal ability within the churches and gospel choirs of her local community. Now based in Leeds she has developed a powerful and soulful vocal style that takes inspiration from artists such as Madeleine Bell, Dee Dee Warwick and Dusty Springfield and has an honesty and integrity that is missing in many of today's recordings.
She made her debut for the label with a cover version of "I, Who Have Nothing" that she recorded for ATA's free download series "Hard Work No Pay" and went on to appear on the debut single by The Magnificent Tape Band "Patterns In My Mind" garnering praise from Gilles Peterson (BBC6 Music), Lauren Laverne (BBC6 Music), Adrian Younge and Dom Servini (Wah Wah 45s) in the process.

"There will be some nervous shuffling at Daptone Records HQ as ATA Records show that Daptone aren't the only house of funk & soul who can hit that gorgeous old school soul groove right on the money. Beautiful"
- Greg Boraman, Freestyle Records, The Fantastics.

"I Try/Forbidden Love" is her first original solo release for the label and both tracks are the perfect foil for Rachel's dramatic and emotive performance. "I try" tells the story of a woman who who finds herself on her own after a failed relationship. Creeping guitar & bass and the understated backing vocals of the verse make way for the uplifting chorus and Rachel's soaring vocal performance.
"Forbidden love" is about a married woman embarking on an illicit affair. When her husband takes her for granted she seeks love elsewhere, but she also knows that this new relationship (however wonderful) is also doomed to failure. Rachel herself says "The idea behind these songs was to show strength in women. Deciding their own destiny and finding happiness & contentment in a negative situation."

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