Emma Smith is fast becoming one of the UK's best GASbook interpreters. However, the tracks here are no mere covers but individual versions that owe nothing to anyone but the actual songwriters themselves.
The greats, including the greatest, may have put their stamp on some of them but Emma proves that lightning can and does strike twice. Take You Go To My Head. Most singers sing it slow and dreamy which, I guess is the way the composer intended. Emma proves that it works equally well, maybe even better, as a medium tempo bossa nova.
Irrespective of whether you're familiar with all of the numbers or not, I guarantee you'll find something new. I'd never heard Chelsea Bridge other than as an instrumental although I've since discovered there are vocal versions by Ella, Sarah, Dianne Reeves, Cassandra Wilson and Tina May. To have your name added to such a roll of honour is an honour indeed.
Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree brings to mind Glenn Miller - that is until you hear Emma!
The accompaniment by the trio is as perfect as it is possible to be.
The album comes out on October 25 however, if you can't wait that long all is not lost. Emma is singing with the Strictly Smokin' Big Band at the Common Room (next to the Lit & Phil) in Newcastle this Sunday (Sept. 29). Book now before it's too late. TICKETS. Lance
Matchmaker, Matchmaker; Saturday Night is the Loneliest Night of the Week; Old Cape Cod; (Love is) the Tender Trap; You Go To My Head; Day In, Day Out; No Moon at All; Chelsea Bridge; Night and Day; Where or When; Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree.
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