Sophia Shorai: Long As You're Living

What is most exciting about the new crop of singers coming onto the scene is the abundant joy present in much of their work. They're happy to be singing; they're happy to do what their idols and mentors do; they're happy to be sharing their gift. One listen to singer Sophia Shorai's Long as You're Living and the prominence of her enthusiasm is hard to ignore. Featuring twelve jazz and contemporary music covers, and accompanied by pianist Tommy Barbarella, Shorai's project represents the best of what music is all about: good music made by artists who clearly believe in their product.

Long as You're Living is a great display of "do what you love and everything will fall into place." Shorai's voice is sweet and light, while Barbarella—best known for his work with Prince and the New Power Generation—brings an energy that makes Shorai soar. Shorai is clearly eager to put her own spin on the lyrics, a goal that Barbarella helps the singer accomplish, as long as he's allowed to shine in the process; the two sounding good together, which benefits the music.

With themes of love, politics, and social responsibility spread throughout the recording, the standout tracks include the title track, along with "Black Coffee," "You Don't Know What Love Is," "Everybody Knows," "In the Wee Small Hours," and "Big Brother."

A testament to the good music coming out of Minneapolis, it won't be long before Shorai extends beyond her local setting and becomes a regular fixture all over the air waves.