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
The Aperturistic Trio
Truth and Actuality
RACHEL ECKROTH
Let Go
THE MIKE LONGO TRIO
Float Like a Butterfly
Houston Person
The Melody Lingers On
THE GODFATHERS OF GROOVE FEATURING REUBEN WILSON, BERNARD “PRETTY” PURDIE, AND GRANT GREEN JR.
The Godfathers of Groove
SIMONE
Simone on Simone
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