:: Katie Noonan - Blackbird: The Music Of Lennon & McCartney For Jazz Sextet

Katie Noonan

Katie Noonan is an exceptionally talented singer and it comes as no surprise that she has steered her course in the early days of her new record deal by her jazz-flavoured tribute to the masters: Lennon & McCartney. From seeing her in her early days, one could foresee the strength of a jazz background in her singing style. Therefore, Katie is well suited to many of the Beatles songs and her reinterpretations on ‘Blackbird’ keeps her true to her roots. The album was recorded in New York and she is backed by several worthy musicians. Occasionally, Katie stretches the songs too far but she has chosen a good selection of classics to suit her natural warmth. Obvious high points are ‘Blackbird’, ‘Across The Universe’, ‘Michelle’, ‘Fool On The Hill’, and ‘Norwegian Wood’. Katie conveys deep emotion and delivers in a sophisticated way. Not all Beatles lovers will favour the styling, but she has done a fine job in displaying her jazz singing capablities to classic pop songs.