The esteemed vocalist, pianist and composer Niia is back with her fifth album, where a return to her roots and first love, i.e. jazz, recruits electronic pop ideas alongside live musicianship for the 11 creative tracks.
The rich and atmospheric “Fucking Happy” leads with Niia’s distinct and commanding voice that welcomes Vancil Cooper’s crisp drums and the occasional quick blast of firm wordplay. “Ronny Cammareri” then follows, using a mesmerizing bass line plus Nicole McCabe’s radiant sax generating much elegance.
Moving towards the middle, “I Found The Restaurant” is a soft moment of sublime intimacy thanks to Niia’s expressive voice and careful instrumentation, while “With Feeling” is a brief, cozy display of colorful and soulful sax prowess that makes an impression in under a minute.
“Pianos And Great Danes,” one of the busiest tunes, exits the first side and pairs a lively beat with pretty singing and flowing keys that suit the dance floor mood. “Again With Feeling” then starts the backside with hypnotic keys from Benjamin Bock that align with Niia’s diverse pipes.
“Maria Is Blue” resides close to the end and is the best track. The melodies are mature, the setting cryptic and the singing is captivating, but “The Awful Truth” is a close second thanks to the sing-alongs and frisky percussion that supports a stylish, modern appeal that’s jazz-tinted. “Angel Eyes” exits, and allows for the lovely singing to be complemented by sophisticated piano. It’s a song that’s been covered many times, but never quite like this.
Niia’s classical training is put to good use here. It’s her most personal album to date, where dreamy moments, straight ahead jazz and innovative electronica won’t be hard to spot or appreciate. The co-producers Spencer Zahn and Lawrence Rothman sure did a great job, too, of illuminating Niia’s multi-dimensional talents.
