Samara Joy – Linger Awhile
Weekly Review:
Samara Joy’s self-titled debut earned her the best new artist award from Jazz Times magazine in 2021. Now Joy is back with her second album, this time on Verve, the storied jazz label that was home to Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and Nina Simone.
Joy has clearly been studying these influences. Linger Awhile includes songs associated with Sarah Vaughan (opening track “Can’t Get Out of This Mood”), Nancy Wilson (“Guess Who I Saw Today”) and Fitzgerald (“Misty”). Wisely, Joy doesn’t try to compete with any of these singers. Joy’s voice is warm and familiar with impressive range. Landing somewhere between Vaughan and Fitzgerald’s styles, Joy can swoop down and hit the low notes, then soar into the upper register without breaking a sweat.
The quartet backing Joy deserve credit for the album’s success as well. Guitarist Pasquale Grasso receives a featured credit on three tracks. His spry fretwork provides a nice counterpoint to Joy’s nimble voice. Pianist Ben Paterson, bassist David Wong and drummer Kenny Washington help make well-worn numbers “Round Midnight,” “I’m Confessin’ (That I Love You)” and “Someone to Watch Over Me” feel fresh and lively.
Since it’s release last fall, Linger Awhile picked up a Grammy for best jazz vocal album and Joy earned the best new artist Grammy. While Linger Awhile doesn’t cut any new ground, it is delightful to hear Joy revive the classic jazz vocalist form in a way unseen since Norah Jones, 20 years ago. It will be fascinating to see where she takes it from here. -Joel Francis
Since it’s release last fall, Linger Awhile picked up a Grammy for best jazz vocal album and Joy earned the best new artist Grammy. While Linger Awhile doesn’t cut any new ground, it is delightful to hear Joy revive the classic jazz vocalist form in a way unseen since Norah Jones, 20 years ago. It will be fascinating to see where she takes it from here. -Joel Francis
