This
is a interesting collaboration. The multi-talented English Lady
from Birmingham and the bass player from the India Arie Band, Khari
Simmons. Both now residing in Atlanta which presumably is how they
met up. Though with Incognito's Bluey as an A and R advisor to the
project it wouldn't surprise me if the ever enthusiastic one had a
part to play in the relationship! Whatever and whoever takes the
credit becomes largely irrelevant when the quality of the material
is this good. Julie herself is no stranger to Bossa Nova thanks to
her past work with composer Thomas Naim and Khari has a long
held an affection for the music which he appropriately dubs
'Soul Bossa'.
The album itself is a mixture of
originals and cover versions of songs from the likes of Basia
through Everything But The Girl to Sergio Mendes. Of the newer
material 'The Dove' combines the delightful soulful vocals of the
classically trained Miss Dexter with a strong saxophone solo that
has distinct jazz undertones and a laid back groove all in
the matter of 210 seconds. The track oozes quality and the album
also features a 'Jiva' remix from Khari himself. But it is
another remix, that of an original composition 'Venusian'
which has my vote for the standout track of the album. Always
rhythmic in nature it builds to an unrelenting jazzy groove which
clearly pays homage to Incognito. After sax and piano solos it
breaks in the middle and you know that what is about to be
unleashed is music of a rare quality. You are NOT let down. At
nearly 8 minutes in length you still wish it could last a little
longer!.
With the infectious instrumental
'Sea and Sky' and the sublime 'Fooled By A Smile' this is an album
perfect for the summer nights and yet equally at home in the glow
of a winter's log fire. A JL contender for album of the year which
is released in Europe by those purveyors of quality soul,
Dome records. Check release availability locally as the album has
yet to even feature on the artists websites!
