Rita Ray has been dubbed the crown jewel of Estonian soul ever since her stellar debut album ‘Old Love Will Rust’ (2019). Right from the outset, these accolades were in no way exaggerated, as the bluish, flirtatious blend of soul, classic R'n'B and disco aesthetics is something only a few female artists these days can still pull off so magnificently. Anyone who's ever heard Ray's voice, felt the graceful melodies in their ears and soul, and listened to the cinematic arrangements on her latest album ‘A Life Of Its Own’ (2022) simply can’t resist the fascination of this artist. Singers of this stature are often compared to the shining lights of the 70s and 80s - and here, for once, it really is apt. It's no coincidence that names like Aretha Franklin, Duffy and Amy Winehouse repeatedly come to mind when listening to songs like ‘Love Ain't The Same’, where Rita Ray brings her powerful vocals to the fore between brilliant string arrangements. For all enthusiasts of passionate soul music, it’s a lucky break beyond words that this artiste is set to appear alongside her foursome band at this year’s Festival.