Vocalist and musician Crystal JACQUELINE is usually a member of The Honey Pot, but have started venturing out on her own these days as well. One of her first solo excursions is released now in August 2013 by specialist UK label Fruits de Mer Records, sporting three cover versions of songs that first were made famous by others issued on a good, old-fashioned vinyl single.

The Troggs Cousin Jane is first up, in this take a frail musical journey with a slow piano motif, occasional symphonic inspired backdrops and odd but effective rhythm effects supporting the sensual, longing lead vocals that might just make this version of the song a lesbian anthem. Second Hand’s A Fairy Tale is a more elaborate construction, alternating between a classic psychedelic sound of darker toned guitar riffs combined with organ garage rock style with lighter toned, richly layered themes sporting gentle guitars and symphonic backdrops of a Mellotron inspired quality as the main features, elements from these two contrasting movements combining in different arrangements towards the end. Calm, controlled lead vocals by Jacqueline on this song, which suits this take perfectly. Rolling Stone’s Play With Fire isn’t known as their most energetic creation, but this frail version of it with careful harpsichord  and nervously reverberating light toned lead motif by the guitar is perhaps the most tender version of this song yet. Neat and gentle psychedelic guitar solo details makes occasional appearances throughout, and with lead vocals of a toned down, emotionally edged variety there’s tension by the truckload here too. A splendid take on a classic song.

If Crystal Jacqueline’s apparently forthcoming full length debut album manage to maintain the quality of this three track single, then she’s got all the musical elements she needs for a career going. A highly intriguing production by an artist that at least for me is a new acquaintance.

My rating: 100/100