Esperanza Spalding
A tasty gem is about to open your ears the minute you press ‘play’ to an exciting release from young, talented bassist Esperanza Spalding. In her self-titled project, you’ll find textures of latin flavored jazz compositions, startling combinations of tantalizing acoustic bass play & sultry jazzy sounds only representative of her blessed talent. I was absolutely taken off guard by her skill, precision & composure. And at a very young age, you wouldn’t guess it when you hear Ms. Spaldings music!
Track Listing:
~ Ponta De Aeria
~ I Know You Know
~ Fall In
~ I Adore You
~ Cuerpo Y Alma (Body & Soul)
~ She Got You
~ Precious
~ Mela
~ Love In Time
~ Espera
~ If That’s True
~ Samba Em Preludio
Straight from out of the gate, “Ponta De Aira” showcases her versatility to breathe life into a spanish musical gem, with instrumentation completing a classic song from the one & only Milton Nascimento. And yes, with the background grooveline of the piano & her harmonious flair combining to create a perfect balance, without a doubt, your going to be in for a treat. Go find a nice place to relax & chill for a moment. Ms. Spalding is taking over…
“I Know You Know” surprised me because it carried an undertone of Neo-Soul & sprinkled lightly with a soft touch of Caribbean, congo tapered grooveline & hooks. Ms. Spalding dances vocally around the structured composition with confidence, enticing you to possibly nip that volume control up just a tad. Just a tad y’all, that’s all!; Then when the sun sets & the moon is brightly lit into the evening afterglow, another feature is introduced exquisitely with song, “Fall In”. Esperanza displays a stage setting performance unlike anything heard live for a while. Yet with still having to accept the idea that this young lady is in her early-mid 20’s, her range enlightens a reflection of a mature Nina Simone. A range with experience & discipline.
And she can scat! Get a moment & please pay close attention to “I Adore You”. The jazz influenced members of her band handled her vocal delivery over the mic to the taste of a masterfully baked slice of apple pie! It tasted that good!!
Highlights also includes the ballad “Love In Time”, The opening bassline to “Mela” escapes from the gate & sends you into a parralled, organic, pure-jazz session. The way jazz music can be appreciated for. The trumpet solo dazzles the track, along with an exceptional piano piece halfway into it. No need to go any further about the rest of this, otherwise, marvelous collectible of music….For good measure its time for this:
Ms. Spalding delivers a riveting display of special skill & talent unlike I have ever heard in this generation. Exceeding every expectation I had of this project from the reception of this CD. I’m glad to see Heads Up International providing her the chance for the world to finally receive a special, musically endowed, jazz centerpiece. Not only am I soliciting the album for purchase into your collection, I will also go out on the limb, to promote a chance of seeing Ms. Spalding live when she comes to your neighborhood, sometime soon I hope…
Terrill J. Hanna
The Urban Music Scene
For more information, song samples & more, please visit www.headsup.com today!
Also, as a special feature. Ms. Spalding’s performance is caught Live In Copenhagen! Enjoy!!