The great part about going to a school with such a solid music industry program is being able to network with so many peers who are artists themselves. There are so many eclectic styles around our university’s campus, but one of my personal favorite performers has to be Cata Gonzalez.

This past summer, Gonzalez released her self-written EP titled Old Soul New Voice, which features many of her original tracks and also a mash-up of some of the most popular songs of the year.

Gonzalez’s featured single off of the EP is titled “Proof,” and is probably my favorite track off of the album. There is a certain quality to her voice in this song that really highlights the type of artists she is portraying.

Beyond the fact that the song has a contagious chorus and a beautiful guitar backing, Gonzalez really shows off of her skills as a talented lyricist. The music video that she released on Aug. 14, 2012, for this song really gives you a deeper look at the girl behind the artist. Automatically, you can see that Gonzalez is a genuine girl who loves sharing her gift with the world. It is hard to write so many originals that are relatable to whom ever listens. She has clearly made the distinction between an amateur songwriter and an artist.

Another song that really exemplifies Gonzalez’s songwriting skills is “When I,” which is track number five on her EP. This song has an amazing story line to it, and perfectly harmonized backing vocals make it very enjoyable to listen to.

After listening to this EP, you find yourself having the songs stuck in your head, which is the telltale sign of a great songwriter. Whenever you speak to Gonzalez about her music, or any music in general, it is easy to see how passionate she is. You can clearly tell that music has always been a part of her life, and that she cannot see herself doing anything else.

Gonzalez moved to the United States on her own after high school to attend the University of New Haven because she knew that there would be no other way to get involved with the industry. That sort of life change all for the sake of her music shows courage, determination and, most importantly, character.

Everyone should do themselves a favor and download her EP, Old Soul New Voice, today; I can promise you will not regret it.

http://catalinagonzalez.bandcamp.com/