Theo Jackson - Shoeless and the Girl
(Dot Time Records DT9035. CD Review by Adrian Pallant)
In these days of quick-fix, fast fame, ten-a-penny singer/songwriters, the hope remains alive in many genres that genuine craftsmanship and musicality will out. Contemporary jazz has its own fine catalogue of distinctive, treasured piano vocalists… and it would appear that another is now entering the fold. Back in 2012, Kent-born Theo Jackson was discovered by Steve Rubie, owner of London's 606 Club (where he still regularly performs) – and Jericho, a quietly confident debut release of self-penned material, ensued. What raised eyebrows then was the distinctive Englishness of a trained musician who wasn't content with churning out standards and covers to gain popularity; but rather, here was a steeped-in-jazz songwriter, pianist and singer insistent on charting his own course. And sell-out London and Cheltenham jazz festival gigs confirmed his appeal.
New release Shoeless and the Girl finds Jackson (still early on in his career but already maturing as a creative musician) inspired by characters and themes of loneliness – the storytelling is a vital ingredient. And, though frequently wistful or emotionally charged, the album also displays attractive charm and balance. Intentionally recorded more or less live in the studio, with Jackson singing at the piano, it's clear that his music is influenced by mainstream pop and soul artists. Yet this couldn't be described as anything over than a jazz record, full of memorable vocal phrasing and slick instrumental finesse from Theo and his core trio companions Huntly Gordon (double bass) and Marco Quarantotto (drums, percussion).
read more: http://news360.com/digestarticle/6dhablWmIECrKHsU7-S92A
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