:: Stranger On Earth

Lina

This is Lina’s debut album for Atlantic Records. The Denver-born artist has a striking look and writes compelling songs. Those characteristics usually pave the way for success. Lina lives up to the expectations placed on her. Having been a keen student on earlier music styles, particularly the likes of Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and jazz greats Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan, she sought versatility in her voice and songwriting style. The process is done with a deftness and calmness and she draws the listeners into the era of jazz (30s/40s style) – big band accompaniments (staccato piano and clarinet are prominent) and a retro (50s style) pre hip-hop influence. The title track is the one cover song on the album – originally recorded by Dinah Washington – and Lina does it beautifully. “It’s Alright” is a good upbeat song – a breezy feel and suitable for mainstream listeners, while “Don’t Say Nothin’” is relatively dark and moody. Generally, the album is most consistent in feeding jazz samples into today’s themes. It’s recommended listening.