So many albums being released these days it's nigh impossible to review or even listen to other than a very small percentage. This one got through as it was reported as being her eleventh release and the wide variety of numbers are, to say the least, intriguing.
I mean to say, Space Oddity! I've never been a Bowie fan and I'm only vaguely familiar with the original. However, rather than check out the Bowie record for comparisions which, in truth would have been pointless, I listened without the benefit of hindsight and, although the lyrics are rubbish (I've since discovered a few different interpretations as to what it's all about) Naylor's earthy voice rises above (or maybe below) the stupidity of the song.
Other oddities, from a jazz angle include Cold Play's Fix You done in modular form over It Never Entered my Mind - the things they get up to!
Naylor has an intriguing voice, more baritone than contralto and, had she been born before she was born, could well have been a blues mama or the second banana in a vaudeville show supporting Sophie Tucker. That, of course, is whimsical conjecture and her distinctive voice lends itself well to the pops, the standards and her originals which take up 7 of the 14 tracks. And, this is one of those rare occasions where the originals are as compelling as the tried and tested.
The support is fine with Naylor's partner and accompanist Khu, a star in his own right, alongside Evans and Jones, providing the solid support that makes for a delightful completion.
It may be a long game, but it's a game well worth playing for the music, the lyrics and the interpretations.
Lance
Like Someone in Love; Give me One More Chance; Fix You; I'll Be Loving You; Love Look What You've Done; Walkin' Out The Door; Smile; The Thrill is Gone; Space Oddity; The Long Game; Don't Give Up; Speak Low; It's The Right Time; All My Life. (Titles in bold are Naylor originals).
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