Album Results
Album Reviews
Sweet vocal jazz for the post-club generation that could have been made decades ago, Koop's debut album finely treads the line between the hipster posturing and lounge perfection that is the specialty of acid jazz radio guru Gilles Peterson. Lush orchestration and hard bop rhythms make Waltz for Koop a pleasing sensation, but it is the rotating cast of vocalists that gives the album a strength beyond kvetch. Newcomers Cecilia Stalin and Yukimi Nagano both follow the fluttering vocal lineage of Astrud Gilberto on two songs each. The ladies perform effortlessly next to songs featuring certified vocal greats Earl Zinger and Terry Callier, each of whom wrote the lyrics to their respective numbers, "Modal Mile" and "In a Heartbeat." Callier's turn is the highlight of the album, with Koop augmenting the master's voice and their own retro melodies with subtly modern sounds, creating a fusion that remains true to the traditional form while staking their own 21st century musical claim. Though Koop occasionally steps into pretension (the album contains several unnecessary vocal interludes taken from old jazz programs), Waltz for Koop is one of those rare albums that succeeds in paying homage to the artist's heroes without sounding like watered-down versions of said forerunners. Put any of this album's songs on a mix tape next to a classic by Elis Regina or Chet Baker, and see if it doesn't fit together. ~ Joshua Glazer, All Music Guide
Track Listing
more| Featured Review | |
|
Don't Believe In Love Dido |
| After almost 5 years, Dido is back...and was it worth the wait? The single sounds like it could have come off the last album, with a great chorus and sumptuous strings carrying the melody and packing an emotional punch in the process. Apparently this and most of "Safe Trip Home" was written about her recent breakup. Well, it worked for Winehouse with 'Back to Black', so why not? However, lyrics aside, it's actually a good little pop song and it's surprising how little radio play it has had, resulting in a relatively low chart placing. Maybe people are waiting for the album (now out), which she has worked on with the likes of Brian Eno & Jon Brion (Keane), as her sales are remarkably high due to her loyal fan case. The first two shifted over 24 millions copies worldwide between them. After a brief listen, it seems that Dido has released the strongest song first, as she did with 'White Flag' from her last effort. However, this is not of that magnitude unfortunately and the album feels a bit low key and 'samey'. But, as with all great albums, only time will tell and this lead single more than merits the wait: the haunting vocals and polished production will at least push the extremely talented Dido back into the public's consciousness, where she belongs! | |
 more
|
|
