Jo Harrop, The Heart Wants, Lateralize *****

A landmark vocals-jazz moment for 2021 and it's not just for the stellar personnel participating. And yet it's a huge plus point that one of the world's most iconic bassists and bandleaders Christian McBride joins the very fine London via Chester-Le-Street singer Jo Harrop on a number of tracks led off by the very bluesily-soulful 'The Heart Wants What the Heart Wants', McBride a stately presence, and on 'All Too Soon' and 'Wise Words' (begun with chords like you'd hear on Billy Taylor's 'I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free)'. The great Welsh trumpeter Andy Davies is also on the record adding lots of characterful elaboration as is ex-Jeff Beck UK jazz piano icon Jason Rebello who like McBride (in London tomorrow night with Jason Moran at the Wigmore Hall) has also worked extensively with Sting. Above all else the quality of Jo's originals are the icing on the cake. And what an authentic voice she has, delivering such a meaningful jazz message. SG. The Heart Wants is released on Friday

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There are no overnight sensations. It takes time to grow, to bloom and ignite something inside listeners. Artists however not on the marlbank radar properly beyond basic name recognition or even that prior to 2021 who certainly cut through and resonated most of all with your favourite daily jazz blog by hearing them on new records, live, or in some cases both are in healthy supply at the moment. We have pared a sampling list down to 10 of the finest. ''New?'' No, these artists haven't all just been born! What's here before you listen? Dazzling multi-instrumentalism from David Mrakpor whether on vibes, guitar or above all piano; brass ballsiness from Young Pilgrims; startling Nordic Cool School flavours from Maridalen; a gloriously fresh and piquant take on bossa nova and samba stylings from Mario Bakuna; a boffin-like guitar dexterity from Tom Ollendorff that lit a fuse; fabulous flow, freebop and beyond from saxist Guido Spannocchi; Toots-like calibre harmonica playing from Ariel Bart; classic-jazz vocals from Samara Joy; an anthemic acumen from Alexei Orechin; and extraordinary percussive rapport and timing courtesy of Minihi. Take a dip: