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
JEFF COFFIN MU'TET
Mutopia
ELISABETH KONTOMANOU
Back to My Groove
Various Artists
European Jazz Stage (Radio Netherlands Worldwide)
BLUE MOON MARQUEE
BARE KNUCKLES & BRAWN
WYNTON MARSALIS
From The Plantation To The Penitentiary
Matt Wilson’s Arts and Crafts
The Scenic Route
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