Musicians: Belinda Underwood (vocals &n bass),John Gross (tenor sax), Dan Balmer (guitar), David Friesen (Hamage bass), Airto Moreira (drums and percussion), Clay Giberson (piano), Phil Baker (bass), Martin Zarzar (drums and percussion), Chad Wagner (piano), and Jason Levis (drums)
Review:
Synchronize sultry overtones with an innate sense of jazz, accompanied with a multi level talent, and you have a moment well spent with Belinda Underwood.
“Uncurling” is a collection of the many dimensions intertwined within this educated siren. Seductive? Yes! and it works so well with her very inviting infectious nature to whomever is exposed.
Original in lyric and concept, Underwood’s “Uncurling” releases a soulful energetic plethora of crisp compositions. She allows the “push and players” a moment of real jazz laid down the way it ought to be, with intimate style! No comparison from this scribe, Ms. Underwood is Ms. Underwood alone, unique in all aspects of her stage presence.
The timid lover scenario is evident in her original Later Baby, on a love left. The string and key bonding in this piece allows the lyric line to really come across.
Title cut Uncurling is delicate in presentation. Ms. Underwood’s vocals again seem so timid, but with an angelic romance to them that expels hidden confidence. Clay Giberson does a fine job on the ivories, keeping the flow intact along with percussionist Martin Zarzar.
No sugar coating needed, Ms Underwood’s firm understanding of the genre is very present in “Uncurling.” Take the time; it will be well worth the spin!
Karl Stober is an international freelance columnist and broadcaster who can be reached at jazztrenzz@bellsouth.net. Karl can also be reached at 1-802-380-6065.
Tracks: Born To Be Blue, Uncurling, Trees, Later Baby, How Deep Is The Ocean, World Peace Blues, Say My Name, You're Everything, You Don't Know What Love Is, Unspoken Thought, Invitation, There Will Never Be Another You
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