ALBUM REVIEW – as written for the Jackson Hole Weekly Newspaper.
Artist: Jessie Ware
Album: DEVOTION
Release date: August 20, 2012
The UK has been churning out a noticeable stream of songstress talent over the last few years, and Jessie Ware’s debut album “Devotion” is no exception to that trend. “Devotion” stands poised to take not only a first bow to standing ovation but also to contend for label as one of 2012’s best albums. Jessie Ware’s vocal talent is undeniable as she gracefully moves from the diva styles of formerly-lent collaborative vocals with UK artists SBTRKT and Joker and into the formidable land of steering a powerhouse voice through quiet subtleties. “Devotion’s” beats are rooted in dance, although they have more of bring-the-date-home-after-the-clubstep feel than an on-the-floor party one. Ware shapes her voice from effervescent, floating loops over electronic lines in “110%” to an 80’s-style chorus wail in the can’t-get-it-out-of-your-head-catchy track “Running.” “Taking On Water” settles the album’s score as a compulsory diva ballad with Ware opening up into high register in shades of early 90’s R&B, and “Wildest Moments” is a radio-friendly croon over soldiering beat that I’m sure will accompany Ware into the forefront of mainstay stardom.
