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
PETER ROM TRIO
Says Who?!
Various Artists
European Jazz Stage (Radio Netherlands Worldwide)
DEEPAK RAM
Steps
Nicholas Payton
Sonic Trance
CHICK COREA & GARY BURTON
The New Crystal Silence
Bobby Previte
The Coalition of the Willing
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