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
Various Artists
European Jazz Stage (Radio Netherlands Worldwide)
DAN SIEGEL
Departure
JOHN PATTON
Soul Connection
SONDRE LERCHE & THE FACES DOWN QUARTET
Duper Sessions
Edye Evan Hyde
A Lady With A Song
JACK DEJONETTE AND BILL FRISELL
The Elephant Sleeps But Still Remembers
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