Intimacy is a big factor on Elles in the pared back setting the iconic South Korean singer Youn Sun Nah finds in the arrangements of this classic female-centred songbook album in duo with pianist Jon Cowherd. Another big factor is familiarity because the songs are so instantly so - 'Feeling Good,' 'My Funny Valentine,' 'Sometimes I Feel Like A Motherless Child,' 'Killing Me Softly With His Song' and so much more. That last aspect frustrated me a bit but I have always liked the singer's voice and it's the voice rather than the song that is most vital with her. In the wake of the Laufey phenomenon of the last few years gen Z jazz newcomers who like the Laufey voice certainly will find a similar spirit and even a soul mate here. Cowherd is ideal - I liked his role most on the cover of Jefferson Airplane's 'White Rabbit.' SG
Out on 26 January
Tags: