Is
there something about the rural parts of the UK that produces
extraordinary young musical talent and with such soul.
First there was Joss Stone and now the equally young Polly
Gibbons. That of course is where the comparisons must stop
because with Polly we have a far more jazzier style and
some thoughtful, even at times ironic lyrics. That is
probably down to the influence of the albums co-writer and
producer Ola Onabule who has for a long time been the leader
of the British soul-jazz movement.
Released on Ola's own label,
the set kicks off well with a killer tune. 'Toy Shop' has been
around for a while in select circles and has a delicious melody
with a solid groove. It says a lot for the standard of the album
that there are a number of further tracks that are it's equal.
Polly's style of vocal is almost bluesy at times but with a jazz
phrasing and a soulful richness, nowhere more better illustrated
than on the slow groove of 'Colourfield.' Impeccable
musicianship and a 'live feeling' production add to the overall
class of the album. 'Give and Take' is one for a glass of red wine,
low lights and a relaxing mood and final mention must go to
'I'll be there' which finishes the album as strongly as 'Toy'
opened it.
Overall, each of the shortish tracks
has a strong melodic content backed by mature vocal
interpretations and solid musicianship which leads the way for the
future of soulful jazz. Craftsmanship of the highest order and a
lady that looks set to make a real mark on the scene. This is
one for the true connoisseur
