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
DIZZY GILLESPIE ALL STAR BIG BAND
I'm BeBoppin' Too
Matt Kane & The Kansas City Generations Sextet
Acknowledgement
The Lynne Arriale Trio
Come Together
FRED HERSCH
In Amsterdam: Live at the Bimhuis.
RACHEL ZAMSTEEN
Bouquet
MONTEREY JAZZ FESTIVAL 50TH ANNIVERSARY ALL-STARS
Live at the 2007 Monterey Jazz Festival
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