South London singer/songwriter Melissa James is already attracting a considerable ‘live’ following. This is no great surprise to this reviewer; the lady has an earthy soulful sound reminiscent of Maria Muldaur.
Picture yourself in a smokey jazz club late at night, sexy voice in the background and you get the picture! If it’s a fusion of blues/jazz/folk and soul you’re after, and then look no further. Melissa’s songs will take you on mini detours, illustrating the raw elements of her inner thoughts. She has a more than capable songwriting partner in Ross Lorraine, the haunting ‘I Miss You’ one of their better collaborations.
After three years, ‘Day Dawns’ has emerged. Amassing a fine set of musicians, including Matt Park / James Pusey on guitar, Nick Pini/Larry Bartley on bass, Nick Ramm/Dave Lennox on keyboards, Tony Kofi, sax, Mark Fletcher, drums and last, but not least, Damon Brown on trumpet, I can only assume fun was to be had at Cowshed Studios for the recording.
Standout tracks for me are ‘Little Caged Bird’, ‘I Need You Here’ and ‘I Miss You’. As said at the start of the review, great late night listening, this lady is certainly worth checking out.
Clive Rawlings – Blues Matters!, August/September 2012