Sooner Or Later
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The first album from the Los Angeles vocalist Natalie Jacob, the interpretations from the Great American Songbook and 3 bossa nova standards welcome an all star cast.
“Exactly Like You” opens the listen with Tamir Hendelman’s warm piano and Scotty Barnhart’s cozy trumpet that suit Jacob’s glowing voice, and “Wave” follows with Anthony Wilson’s breezy guitar that accents the dreamy delivery of the emotive climate.
“East Of The Sun (And West Of The Moon)” lands in the middle and recruits plenty of rhythm via Clayton Cameron’s lively drums and Jacob’s versatile pipes, while “What A Little Moonlight Can Do” benefits much from Carlitos Del Puerto’s frisky bass amid the cultured presence.
The title track arrives late, and showcases Barnhart’s skilled trumpet and Jacob’s flawless singing, and “No More Blues (Chega De Saudade)” exits with Wilson’s meticulous guitar and Kevin Winard’s animated percussion for the upbeat and memorable finish.
Even though it’s her debut, Jacob has been a long time player on the LA jazz scene and fronted her own band in 2010. As a solo artist, she’s off to an exceptional start with these well executed and timeless tracks that anyone with an ear for jazz will appreciate.
Travels well with: Karen Mack- Catch & Keep; Lisa Rich- Long As You’re Living