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
PETE ESCOVEDO
LIVE FROM STERN GROVE
Various Artists
Upstairs at Larry's: Lawrence Welk Uncorked
BEN ALLISON AND MAN SIZE SAFE
Little Things Run the World
THE DYNAMITES FEATURING CHARLES WALKER
KABOOM
Brandi Disterheft
Blue Canvas
VARIOUS ARTISTS
Live at the Monterey Jazz Festival, Highlights, Volume 1
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