:: Jolie Holland - Escondida

Jolie Holland

This is my introduction to this fascinating Texan singer. The first listen to these twelve tracks showed a unique ability to transcend styles. Some interesting jazz and country twists gives a listener a fresh sounding performer and someone who could emerge strongly in the music scene. In fact, a couple of times throughout the set and I would swear that you could hear Billie Holliday again. Jolie has a smoky, pure delivery and the first track “Sascha” sets a natural jazz path. From then on, it becomes riveting to explore her direction and subtlety. The songs are lyrically impressive and expressive and she is well accompanied by some very capable musicians such as jazz drummer Dave Mihaly and guitarist Brian Miller who allow Jolie the space to vocally explore the songs. I can’t recommend this album highly enough for an escape into Jolie Holland’s magical, timeless music where one is uplifted by the magnetism of her vocal quality and inventive style.