Recently, I joined a few close friends at a dinner party. Chatting with the husband of one of them, we concluded that it is a small feat to be negative. We invite a negative way of thinking and looking at the world into our lives so quickly. My friend is dealing with a personal tragedy of his own, while I’m wrestling with the fact that grief has no expiration date. We decided that we must make every effort to be positive.
Much like Wrabel‘s music, everyone should welcome positivity into their own life with open arms. I truly connected to the heartfelt lyrics and the picture Wrabel painted in Chapter of You. It reminded me of looking at a work of art for the first time. It is music done right with an under current of irony and sincerity.
As an LA-based Queer singer and songwriter, Stephen Wrabel, typically as Wrabel, has recently unveiled Chapter of You as the second of a trio of EPs that will come together in November to form, Based on a True Story, his new full-length album via Big Gay Records/Nettwerk. Earlier in the summer, Wrabel dropped “Turn Up the Love,” a 2023 PRIDE anthem he wrote for the AT&T Turn Up the Love campaign.
Featuring smooth melodies and universal themes, Chapter of You is like a flash of light that magnificently infuses the delicate pain of a broken heart and Wrabel’s personal empowerment. In just under thirteen minutes and with just four tracks, it is quite simply a profound reflection on Wrabel’s transformation.
This is an EP that should be paid close attention to as an emotional journey that strikes several authentic chords. And with a unique spice of authority that effortlessly streams from Wrabel vocals, it is a glamorous upgrade from what he has done prior. Swoon-worthy as his singing may be, Wrabel maintains control of the story, his story, and the influences he has absorbed every step of the way. Compelling yet complex, Wrabel actually offers a remarkable ounce of solace in his music.
He is more than a singer. And music is more than an outlet for his creativity. Wrabel is a poignant storyteller, now comfortable in his own skin and taking charge.
Featured Photo Credit: Yazz Alali