Why Did I Choose You?
Self-Released, 2019
8/10
Listen to Why Did I Choose You?
A Japan native who’s been singing since the age of 10, in 2010 Emi Takada became fully immersed in jazz sounds, and released her well received debut in 2014. This sophomore album brings us 10 standards reworked in Takada’s soothing formula of emotion and playfulness balanced perfectly.
“It Might As Well Be Spring” starts the listen with adventurous, gentle jazz sounds alongside Takada’s pretty and soothing pipes, and “All The Things You Are” follows with elegance and grace in the light jazz setting.
Elsewhere, “Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye” offers a heartfelt duet where keys complement the agile atmosphere, while “Stormy Weather” recruits a classic jazz spirit in the melodic and rhythmic album highlight that’s full of plenty of soul and blues, too.
Near the end, the title track resides near balladry with just keys against Takada’s flawless singing, and the dreamy “Miagete Goran Yoru No Hoshi Wo” ends the listen with male vocals adding much to the hazy landscape.
Takada picked some fantastic tunes that her and her esteemed band reinvent with plenty of swing, authenticity and skilled musicianship on this very well done affair.
Travels well with: Julie London- I Love You; Sophie Milman- In The Moonlight