This twenty-minute-long five-track EP is an absolute delight from beginning to end, and I only wish it were longer. Singer-songwriter Ellen Edwards is based in Atlanta, Georgia, and has recorded three albums there, yet after she met producer and keyboard player Jason Miles they agreed she would head to New York where he put a band together to accompany her on this set of her own material. Miles provides synth, organ and vibes, and is joined by pianist Robbie Kondor, guitarist Jeff Mironov, bassist Will Lee, drummer Gene Lake, and percussionist Richie Morales, with trumpeter Randy Brecker also guesting on one song.
Edwards has a laid-back style with a nice range, happy to go into the lower register when the time is right, yet also happy to hit high notes and hold them. She has a voice full of experience and depth, combined with a confidence which is palpable. She rarely slides into note, only when the music demands it, but hits them and holds them with ease, the mark of a true performer. The songs range between classic jazz and some which are more singer-songwriter, and the slowed down “Blue and Green” where everyone relaxes into the mood is an absolute delight. Here she is accompanied by pianist Kondor and some simple bass, with her voice front and centre, packed with emotion. This EP is incredibly solid, and has me looking forward with great interest to her next album, as she has a passion and style which is reflective, inviting and emotional.
Rating: 8/10
