Hailing
out of her 'adopted' home, Atlanta, vocalist Tammy Allen
creates what she calls 'feel good music' and this her fourth
album is certainly testimony to that statement. Citing
influences which range from George Duke through to Nina Simone
the album contains lyrically mature compositions which though
covering a number of musical genres are always soulful. As Ms
Allen herself admits she has now reached the age where writing
music about 'love matters' when she has a stable marriage and
family is no longer the most important aspect of her life
Thus this album concentrates on subject matter that is a
commentary on life in a somewhat chaotic world.
The funky
'Don't let nobody hold you back' in which vocals are shared
with James Powell is just one track that focuses on the need
to think positively on things and believe in the power of your
thoughts and determination to succeed despite all of
the challenges. Whilst the whole album is musically consistent
throughout the tracks 'Glide' and 'I am Free' raise the
bar both featuring melodic jazzy electric piano solos from
album co-producer Leeland Davis and vocals from Tammy that
explore her full range of prowess. Indeed, as 'I am Free'
builds into a latinesque conclusion and Ms Allen lets us know
that all she wants to do is sing before launching into some
wonderful scatting you have a rare moment where a recording
actually captures the joy of an artist actually doing
something that she clearily really wants to do and who wants
us all to know that life is really pretty good despite
everything and her music proves it! Of course whilst 'love
matters' do come to the fore with the sensually soulful 'What
am I Gonna Do ' which tackles the problem of two people
still very much in love but wondering how they can bring the
initial excitement of a relationship back into their lives; it
is positivity and a love of life which are the main themes.
Supported
by a tight rhythm section playing real instruments and a clean
no nonsense production this album delivers to those who like
their soul with a touch of jazz mixed with a vocal
delivery which is delivered around interesting chord
structures and perfect diction. Sometimes the best can be so minimalistic
and this album is a fine example of just that. Enjoy!
