Year: 2007
Record Label: Musical Legends
Style: Jazz Vocals
Review: Lauren Hooker’s newest entry into the world of jazz is far from mediocre. Powerful in vocals, a positioned flow of acute arrangements, and a vast array of fine selections sets the stage for a highly seasoned musical performance! Musical Legends' release, Right Where I Belong, has numerous attitudes, however, none more profound than that of a sultry soul.
Her talent is best described with the numerous cuts in which Hooker bleeds her bondage into each and every ballad. Feelings are invoked when Hooker lets loose her vocals…giving the listener a sense of much more than just notes on a scale. The impact on most cuts is strong with a high fever pitch. Her soul is her sound! That, my fellow jazz enthusiast, is the main ingredient to the craft itself.
“Seagulls,” by Mal Waldron, is such a wonderful piece. It articulates a story with music. Hooker, taking this Waldron instrumental and adding her lyrics, cements herself as a ‘multi-talent’ in this genre. Many have been quoted as labeling Hooker “a full circle musician.” If any piece of Hooker’s work substantiates this statement, it would be “Seagulls.”
A heartfelt piece is shown by Hooker’s own creation, “No Goodbyes.” One becomes enveloped in the strong jazz piece, exhibiting the warmth of every broken heart ever torn. Lyrics are simple, yet in the purist form, addressing the love that was lost without a trace. The arrangement adds to the deep sorrow. An embraceable ballad for those nights when one reminisces…and falls once more into the arms of the lost!
Hooker is where she needs to be. In other words, “Right Where She Belongs.” This experience can only offer us hopes of more expressive and diverse journeys with Ms. Hooker. Add to your collection only in hopes for another addition soon.
Tracks: Right Where I Belong, You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To, Goodbye To Pork Pie (Goodbye Porkpie Hat), The Eyes Of Chaz, The Other Side Of The Sun, You Needn't Call Me (Well You Needn't), Time And Space, Seagulls (Seagulls Of Kristiansund), Lovebug Jitters (Jitterbug Waltz), No Goodbyes, Footprints On My Soul (Footprints), Ill Wind (You're Blowing Me No Good), Creole Love Call,
Artist's Website: http://www.laurenhooker.com
Reviewed by:
Karl Stober
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