It’s impossible to pinpoint the exact moment when adolescence turns into adulthood. Maybe it’s a convergence of emotions and experiences, a meeting place for infatuation, pain, intrepidity and the loss of innocence. Whatever it is, it’s this ineffable combination of nostalgia and epiphany that 17-year-old songwriter Victoria Canal has captured with her music, using her soulful pop songs to explore what it is like to be sucked inside the whirring chaos of emotion and experience that is life

Now based in Atlanta, London, Amsterdam and Madrid, she has also lived in Munich, Shanghai, Tokyo, Dubai, Barcelona (which she still considers to be her true home) and many other places. The influence of this perpetual traveling has shaped her music as well as her personality, allowing her to see the world’s cultural melting pot in all its rich glory. Born without her right forearm, due to amniotic band syndrome, it was a childhood moment in……. which gave her the confidence to pursue a career in performance. As a large group of people crowded around her, curious to know about her arm and to bless her with hugs, Canal’s initial sense of embarrassment soon gave way to a wave of excitement and possibility.

Having begun songwriting at the age of 11, Canal juggles her time between her music career and studies. As well as high school online, her education has included two full-tuition scholarships to the Berklee College of Music’s 5-week summer programme. In 2014 she won the acclaimed Eddie’s Attic bi-annual Songwriter Shootout, following in the footsteps of her hero John Mayer. Though this balancing act is tough it’s one that is clearly paying off.

An artist who gives a voice to those who might not traditionally become performers, Canal also regularly stages benefit concerts for the causes she believes in such as SERV, AIS and t-oigo. She is also an active supporter of the LGBTQ community as well as representing victims of oppression and abuse. As someone who tries to find a reason to be happy in every situation she wants everyone to enjoy the beauty of life in a fair world.

These experiences, hopes and fears can be heard Unclear, the lead tack from her upcoming EP Into the Pull. The juxtaposition between the dreamlike production and deeply personal lyrics, questioning her purpose in life, adds a layer of mystery to the message within. Unclear was recorded in Jan Smith Studios with Grammy nominated producer “Mama” Jan Smith (Usher, Drake) and her team, Jesse Owen Astin and Demond Mickens (additional programming from LA-based producer Emile Ghantous). Her nostalgic sound teases glimpses of influences like John Mayer, Alicia Keys, Sam Smith and Al Green whilst always remaining unique to its creator.

Canal’s music should be turned up loud and enjoyed at full volume. There’s poetry in the melody and depth in the lyrics, and lovers of classic pop music will want to hear what this gifted young talent has to say.