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
Lewis Porter and Phil Scarff Group
Three Minutes to Four
MARY RADEMACHER & RICK REUTHER
Two of a Kind
TICKLAH
Ticklah Vs. Axelrod
KEN CLARK ORGAN TRIO
Mutual Respect
LUCIANA SOUZA
The New Bossa Nova
Laurence Hobgood Trio
Honor Thy Fathers
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