2014-04-06
Hong Kong's Ginger Kwan serves up themes of hope and inspiration on her debut, Kwantum Leap. Smooth jazz backs this vocalist's buoyant lyrics, occasionally delving into reggae ("I Keep In the Line") and bossa nova ("Someday"). All the songs here are original compositions except for the cover of Simply Red's "Your Mirror"; a song with a positive message supported by simple acoustic guitar and finger-snapping. Ms. Kwan's vocals here are lovely, the musicianship is spot-on, and the production is top-notch. It all comes off as rather bland, however. If you like easy-listening vocal jazz that doesn't take risks, you might like this one. Rebecca Ruth
PONCHO SANCHEZ
PSYCHEDELIC BLUES
CHARLIE HUNTER AND BOBBY PREVITE/GROUNDTRUTHER
ALTITUDES
LAVAY SMITH & HER RED HOT SKILLET LICKERS
MISS SMITH TO YOU
Terence Blanchard
The Comedian
NIA QUINTET
End of Time
Jeff Lorber Fusion
Galaxy
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