Kickin’ It
Self-Released, 2025
8/10
The Chicago vocalist Josie Falbo returns with a 3rd album, where her 3 octave range voice is present across 11 diverse songs.
“I Get A Kick Out Of You” starts with the vibrant horns alongside Lawrence Kohut’s quick bass and Falbo’s soaring pipes, and “Autumn Nocturne” follows with the orchestral strings surrounding much sweeping beauty amid the emotive singing and Jeremy Kahn’s warm keys.
Landing in the middle, “I Just Found Out About Love” carries an infectious energy via Bob Rummage’s bouncy drums and rich brass, while “Yellow Days” lands in balladry thanks to the pretty keys and Falbo’s intimate voice that tugs on the heartstrings.
Moving towards the end, “Lazy Afternoon” flows in a haze of sophistication and cultured ideas that are cinematic, and “Chelsea Bridge” exits with playful scatting and Fareed Haque’s cozy guitar that make for a timeless and haunting finish.
Falbo had 35 years under her belt as a vocalist in studio, at concerts and corporate events, and here she excels in swingin’ moments, tender balladry, pop bouts and Latin influences for an eclectic and memorable outing. Sadly, she passed away at the beginning of 2026, but she leaves behind much music that will be enjoyed by generations to come.
Travels well with: Deborah Shulman- We Had A Moment; Linda Dachtyl- Full Steam Ahead