Hannah Brine: Blue Sky Now

Blue Sky Now is the debut album from British singer-songwriter Hannah Brine. Whilst subtly rooted in jazz, the album also draws inspiration from singer-songwriters of the 1970s, along with elements of pop, folk, and soul. Brine either wrote or co-wrote the songs, collaborating with a range of composers including Michael Garvin and Emily Phillips.

With a background in directing choirs, Brine has led vocal ensembles for numerous television projects and music festivals. She has performed alongside artists such as Gary Barlow (from Take That), Boo Hewerdine and acclaimed songwriter Clive Gregson. She is joined by guitarist Jamie McCredie (who also produces), pianists Hamish Balfour and Jamie Safir, bassist Ian King, drummer Chris Draper and Freddie Gavita on trumpet.

Spanning 10 tracks and running just over 32 minutes, the album delivers concise, focused compositions. Most songs feature memorable refrains, rhythmic melodies and tasteful musical flourishes within a compact two-to-three-minute timeframe. The opening track, "One Precious Life," sets the tone, delivering lightly swinging Latin rhythms and considerable charm in just over two minutes.

Many tunes are elevated by a string quartet with most arrangements by Paul Edis (McCredie arranged the title track). They enliven the slow-moving "You Make Me Believe In Love" and are central to "Goodbye London." This is one of the standout tracks highlighting Brine's skill with a catchy hook, as her crystal-clear voice moves to a higher register.

The gentle swing of "Let Love Find You" receives a welcome jazz infusion through Safir's expressive piano work and Gavita's trumpet flies in the soulful "Heat of the Moment." However, the album's concise runtime leaves limited space for extended improvisation. This keeps the spotlight firmly on Brine's vocals and songwriting, both of which excel on the title track, which features another elegant string arrangement.

Other highlights include "Little Bird," a reflection on fertility and the only song that is solely a Brine composition. "This Little Ship" evokes the classic songwriters of the 1970s and is the pick of the songs that deal with love and regret. Balfour provides classy accompaniment. Brine fully embraces her core influences without chasing modern trends, allowing the songwriting to remain the heart of the album.

Brine's voice is distinguished by its clarity, warmth and an inviting, rounded tone that draws the listener in. The songs are mainly reflective, backed by memorable melodies. While the album may sit at the edges of the jazz genre, it offers an engaging listening experience. Though this debut may have taken time to reach fruition, it serves as a confident introduction and solid affirmation of her talent and hopefully provides the foundation for much more to come.

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