April Olatunji - First Steps

Published Friday 8th June 2012
April Olatunji - First Steps
April Olatunji - First Steps

STYLE: Jazz
RATING 7 7 7 7 7 7 7
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 126382-19182
LABEL: Independent
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1

Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

Newcastle-Upon-Tyne singer/songwriter April has released her debut album with the help of her husband David and a handful of other contributors in a stripped down collection of laidback acoustic jazz numbers that seek to point people towards God. Olatunji's voice is undoubtedly the star of the show and the fragile strength of her vocal delivery succeeds in lifting her self-penned songs to another level. Accompanying herself on electric piano with help from her double bass and cajon-playing husband, Olatunji's evangelical nature is evidenced in the likes of "Which Side Are You On" and "Deeper" whilst tender praise songs such as "Thank You" and "Fall In" communicate a more personal side to her faith. Stand out tracks include the philosophical "Just About Life" - featuring some gorgeous late night sax from Simon Green - and the abstractly experimental "Waiting For My Love" which suggest that Olatunji is an artist willing to buck musical trends to produce something that is a bit different in order to glorify God.

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