Kendra Ross is indeed a new voice. She is also a major new talent. If you are sold on classy, real soul albums which are more organic in approach then “New Voice” is the album for you. Musically, I would lay money down that this set was recorded live in one or two straight takes; pretty much how Big Brooklyn Red runs the show. This, though is slicker, more polished and simultaneously appeals to the soul lover and the jazz head. Vocally, Kendra can be proud of her silky delivery. I am particularly struck by the method in which she employs her voice in places. Some songs have a sensitive, almost lilting Babyface type quality to the approach of the vocals. Othertimes, on jazzier numbers such as “Real Deal” we are treated to a more expressive Regina Belle style. It is on the ballads – of which are legion – that this Lady shines. The haunting “I'm So OK” offers that Babyface lilt atop a sumptuously rich backing of real, live instrumentation. This track alone cannot be beaten, let alone all other gems on offer. “1st Time” is another classy portrayal of Kendra's monster talent. This material is, to me, worthy of Norman Connors at his very best. “Send Me Somebody To Love” could be lifted straight from Bostick's CD and the sassier side of Kendra's vocals are slowly revealed. The gentle, acoustic, “You Made The Difference” is another Babyface styled number – and very nice it is too! However, beating this hands down is the essential duet with Eric Roberson, “Why Can't I See”. If this not a killer soulchoon then I don't know what is! I defy you not to love this song. Another killer tune is the richly toned “Has2B” which is dreamy and all-encompassing. The orchestration is spot on and envelops you in a cotton-wool of warm, jazzy soul, tied up with strings and flute. I have to say that 2007 has not been the year of class as I expected it to be, but in such times albums like this scream out at you demanding attention. Please do not allow this gem to slip away.Thursday 5 February 2009
Kendra Ross - New Voice - Lola's Child Music
Kendra Ross is indeed a new voice. She is also a major new talent. If you are sold on classy, real soul albums which are more organic in approach then “New Voice” is the album for you. Musically, I would lay money down that this set was recorded live in one or two straight takes; pretty much how Big Brooklyn Red runs the show. This, though is slicker, more polished and simultaneously appeals to the soul lover and the jazz head. Vocally, Kendra can be proud of her silky delivery. I am particularly struck by the method in which she employs her voice in places. Some songs have a sensitive, almost lilting Babyface type quality to the approach of the vocals. Othertimes, on jazzier numbers such as “Real Deal” we are treated to a more expressive Regina Belle style. It is on the ballads – of which are legion – that this Lady shines. The haunting “I'm So OK” offers that Babyface lilt atop a sumptuously rich backing of real, live instrumentation. This track alone cannot be beaten, let alone all other gems on offer. “1st Time” is another classy portrayal of Kendra's monster talent. This material is, to me, worthy of Norman Connors at his very best. “Send Me Somebody To Love” could be lifted straight from Bostick's CD and the sassier side of Kendra's vocals are slowly revealed. The gentle, acoustic, “You Made The Difference” is another Babyface styled number – and very nice it is too! However, beating this hands down is the essential duet with Eric Roberson, “Why Can't I See”. If this not a killer soulchoon then I don't know what is! I defy you not to love this song. Another killer tune is the richly toned “Has2B” which is dreamy and all-encompassing. The orchestration is spot on and envelops you in a cotton-wool of warm, jazzy soul, tied up with strings and flute. I have to say that 2007 has not been the year of class as I expected it to be, but in such times albums like this scream out at you demanding attention. Please do not allow this gem to slip away.
