The Heart Wants
Lateralize, 2022
8/10
A British jazz vocalist who is armed with a smokey set of pipes and heartfelt, smart wordplay, this sophomore album sees a much needed U.S. release and showcases Jo Harrop’s focused and eloquent songs about love and life.
“The Heart Wants What The Heart Wants” opens the listen with intimate keys, as Harrop’s soulful and striking vocals guide the gentle jazz climate that recruits Andy Davies on trumpet, and “All Too Soon” follows with strategic bass plucking from Christian McBride to complement Harrop’s powerful pipes.
Entering the middle, “Wise Words” pairs gentle keys thanks to Paul Edis with flowing singing in the cozy landscape, while “Hold On” brings Jamie McCredie’s spirited guitar and Troy Miller’s well timed drums to the album highlight.
Further yet, “Rainbow Sleeves” emits a hint of the blues to the eloquent and dreamy delivery, and “Weather The Storm” exits the listen playful, soothing and full of warm backing vocals, charming organ and, of course, Harrop’s inimitable charm.
Harrop’s armed with an incredible voice, and her backing band certainly accent that well. Add production duties from McCredie and Hannah Vasanth and you’ve got a timeless and engaging jazz listen.
Travels well with: Nicole Henry- Time To Love Again; Cathy Segal-Garcia- Social Anthems Volume 1