Review: Idle Words

So I had mentioned in my last update that I was presented with the opportunity to write a review. After spending sometime with the music of the group in question, I feel confident to speak about their work.

These musicians are a jazz duo called "Idle Words." They are currently based in the UK, they play and craft songs in the spirit of the 20s, 30s, and 40s. The duo is comprised of a singer, Jennifer and a guitarist, Tom. While this is not a specific album review for Idle Words, this review is more about how the duo works together and about the interplay between the singer and the guitarist.

Jennifer's vocal quality is reminiscent of Billie Holiday or Madeleine Peyroux. Tom's accompaniment reminds me of Barney Kessel's style, specifically on Julie London's first album. Admittedly, Idle Words isn't breaking new ground, however, they present a clear, precise, and fun take on old standards. The guitar's clean tone intertwined with the airy, but not hollow, vocals breathes new life into these old chestnuts. Their interpretation of "Sunny Side of the Street" gives one the feeling of the first day of spring after a long, cold winter. In this track, one can hear how seamlessly Jennifer and Tom mesh together, with Tom's rhythmic guitar providing the canvas for Jennifer's beautiful melodic style to paint upon.

This duo has also composed original songs that are stylistically similar to the songs of that bygone era. "Watermelon Happy" feels as though it were created on Tin Pan Alley. The tunes seem more "pop" in their composition, but still retain the charming quality of old standards.

While there are no plans in the near future for Idle Words to tour outside the UK, you can still hear their music at http://www.idle-words.co.uk/. They are currently offering a free MP3 download of their song "All of Me" for those who join their mailing list. They have one album for sale, either in CD or MP3 form, on the site as well. Give them a listen!