Claire Martin - A Modern Art - The Scotsman

There are a lot of jazz singers around these days, but Claire Martin's 13th album for Linn underlines again that she is still a cut above the competition when it comes to defining a contemporary approach to classic jazz vocals. She has the voice as a given, and continues to develop her interpretations of both standards and contemporary songs in knowing and expressive fashion. A Modern Art suggests an explicit intention to demonstrate that contemporaneity, and the repertoire reflects her long-established willingness to look beyond the obvious sources. She has a winning way with sardonic lyrics like Rodgers and Hart's barbed Everything I've Got Belongs To You or Pat Coleman and Colin Lazzarini's clever skit on teen-speak, Totally, but is equally at home with tender ballads. A superb band led by bassist and arranger Laurence Cottle includes some of the UK's finest talents.