Reviewed by Ian Phillips.
By Ada Morghe, Sony Music 2019.
This is the debut release from London- and Munich-based singer songwriter Ada Morghe and it’s a delightfully relaxed, moody and soulfully jazzy album.
The album was recorded at the Abbey Road studios and produced by Hans-Martin Buff who was Prince’s personal engineer from 1996 to 2000.
Ada has assembled an impressive band to help her realise her ideas including Livingstone Browne on bass who also co-produced the album.
He’s worked with artists like Kylie Minogue and Brian Ferry and produced Maxi Priest among many others.
In many ways this album is a cross-over between pop and jazz with the band extemporising on Ada’s interesting and moody lyrics and melodies.
The impressive line-up includes Luke Smith (George Michael band) on keyboards. He was also the co-writer for Amy Winehouse as well as The Sugarbabes so he’s got impressive credentials.
The band is rounded out by Wretch 32 drummer Josh ‘McKnasty’ McKenzie and Italian guitarist Luca Boscagin, who is a regular performer at Ronnie Scott’s famous 606 nightclub.
Ada claims she’s influenced by authors such as Dylan Thomas and Cormac McCarthy in writing her lyrics, focusing on creating atmospheres rather than stories.
Her vocal presentation is relaxed and the songs are full of subtle sentiments and nostalgia.
While the songs are good, it’s the musicianship that really stands out.
They are an exceptional band of musicians.
This album is not really for the pure jazz enthusiasts. Ada has deliberately chosen to head in a more commercial direction and I think it’s a good decision.
One for a laid back afternoon.
