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
River Rogues Jazz Band
From Fats to Satch
VINCENT HERRING
The Uptown Shuffle
Dr. John Hair & New Connections
When The Spirit Gets You!
VARIOUS
Rumble In the Great Lakes (Best of the Detroit Jazz Fest 2007)
SOMI
If the Rains Come First
WYNTON MARSALIS
SELECTIONS FROM SWINGING INTO THE 21'ST
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