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Jazz Articles about Nnenna Freelon
Nnenna Freelon: Soulcall
by Jim Santella
With an eclectic program and her loose feeling of relaxed charm, Nnenna Freelon expresses like no other. On “Button Up Your Overcoat,” for example, she interprets the lyrics with seductive passion. Not a lightweight pop arrangement, Freelon’s offering tells you “Take good care of yourself” because she seems to care about you. It’s from the heart. She’s telling you how she feels about you while weaving with meaningful gestures and vocal expressions. Chris Potter’s soulful tenor saxophone interlude applies intensity ...
Continue ReadingNnenna Freelon: Maiden Voyage
by Jack Bowers
No matter how impressive the voice, no matter how well–oiled the pipes — and Lord knows Nnenna Freelon is abundantly blessed in both respects — he or she simply cannot rise far above the material. Although Freelon makes a gallant effort on Maiden Voyage, the ship barely gets out of drydock, overladen with forgettable lyrics and lashed to its moorings by mundane melodies. Too harsh? Perhaps. But if I were going to open a set with eight sleep–inducing originals, as ...
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