Yamagata is a vibrant singer-songwriter and pianist. Her rich and sultry voice channels influences from jazz, pop, rock, and blues, allowing her to be diverse in her music. She has a lot in common with Fiona Apple, Norah Jones and Sarah McLachlan, and in her upbeat moments she can sound like a fuller-voiced Liz Phair.

She’s collaborated with some of pop and indie’s top players including Jason Mraz, Ray LaMontagne, and Ryan Adams. Her voice is soulful as perfectly described by John Medeski, "Rachael blew my mind with her performance. She’s a natural jazz singer.”

"Finally the heir to Bonnie Raitt.” - Ann Powers, NPR Music