We’re incredibly fortunate here at One Jazz to receive a lot of new music. Hopefully we do a good job of reflecting that on air. Interestingly enough though good new vocal jazz albums can be thin on the ground. So when a strong new voice arrives it’s a cause for celebration.
New Yorker Vanisha Gould is just that – a distinctive new voice deep in the tradition, but with a modern touch in delivery and in the songs she writes. She’s Not Shiny, She’s Not Smooth showcases both in a set that will sit comfortably with fans of the female giants of jazz song – Ella and Sarah but also those like me who adore the slightly left of centre approach that follows a line from Billie Holiday, through Abbey Lincoln to Cassandra Wilson.
The title track is an absolute gem which could have sat central in an Abbey Lincoln set. It’s one of those songs that feels immediately both familiar and fresh. New Dance runs a close second for album highlight with a soulful wordless intro and a dynamic rhythm dance that keeps you hooked throughout.
Accompanied throughout by a sparkling rhythm section and sharp production it’s an album that demands repeated plays. A strong contender, alongside Fay Victor, for vocal album of the year.
This is our Album Of The Week on One Jazz w/c Monday 4th November