I was instantly attracted to Canadian-based singer Emma Lee’s latest LP Never Just A Dream by the track titles alone. From “Bruise Easy” to “An Older Man” down to “Until We Meet Again,” I was placed in a somber but empowering women’s liberation mode.
Emma’s soulful voice did not disappoint my expectations. She captured my heart and attention as she began her CD by explaining what makes her “Bruise Easy.”
Never Just A Dream is built on a collection of jazz-pop songs inspired by the sort of heartache that is universal to anyone who has lived a life worth living. Each story of every line of every song is relatable.
Each song was written by Emma-Lee and produced by Mitch Girio (Kirsten Jones, Lo and the Magnetics). The sound is at times swingin' jazz, at others dreamy 50's pop, with hints of folk and blues all delivered by a voice rich and sweet as a red velvet cupcake.
The sultry title track “Never Just A Dream,” speaks of different realities that are more than what they seem. There is a smooth sax and 50’s style backup singers to support the singer as she takes us to a small café somewhere remote.
With such variety and emotion wrapped into every tune, Emma Lee definitely has made it to my collection of everyday listening.
Tanya Reams-MuzikReviews.com Contributor
September 22, 2008
