Larsdotter, Rebecka: Whirlwind

Rebecka Larsdotter was born in Sweden and is now based out of New York City. Her new album Whirlwind is her solo debut on the Norwegian label Losen Records and is the follow up to Feathers and Concrete, a more funky affair. Her new album has the vocalist working with some excellent New York musicians including Shai Maestro (piano), Aaron Parks (piano), Dayna Stephens (saxophone), Ben Street (bass), Rick Rosato (bass), Ari Hoenig (drums) and Nate Wood (drums).

Although this is predominantly a jazz album there are elements of folk music bearing her Scandinavian roots. Her vocals have a smoky hue, perfectly suited for these eleven piano led tracks. Although the playing is often subtle and introspective there are solos here which never overstay their welcome and are the epitome of good taste.

The first track "Peace" is an exquisitely sentimental piece with wonderful piano and sax. On "Tomorrow's Yesterday" the drums are quite complex filling in the notes between some wonderful piano lines. One of the most beautiful tracks is the melancholic ballad "Indigo Child" featuring plenty of melodic sax work. This one has a folky tinge, especially in her lead vocals. Another highlight is the bluesier "Morning After Pill" where organ and guest guitarist Oz Noy lead the way for some great musicianship. The solo piano in "If The Wind Will Allow" is another excellent reason to check out this disc as are the scat vocals on the last track "My Shining Hour".

Rebecka Larsdotter really does have a nice voice and has surrounded herself with a set of supreme musicians that know when to let loose and when to take a back seat. Overall, Whirlwind is an excellent contemporary jazz record and one I highly recommend.

Track Listing:
1. Peace (4:25)
2. Tomorrow's Yesterday (5:14)
3. Indigo Child (6:20)
4. Like Someone in Love (6:31)
5. Kvar (6:07)
6. Zane's Tune (4:23)
7. Into (4:15)
8. Morning After Pill (4:12)
9. If The Wind Will Allow (6:43)
10. Hmm (4:03)
11. My Shining Hour (3:39)

Added: September 14th 2016
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Label's Official Site
Hits: 1755
Language: english

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