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ARTSETC.

Jones still soulful on latest release

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Also by Jessica Schaeffer:

Come on dance! Students groove to classic tunes (September 15, 2006)
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Something to 'Smile' about (October 11, 2006)
Quartet catchy on new EP (October 18, 2006)

by Jessica Schaeffer

Wednesday, January 31, 2007

Norah Jones' sultry yet powerful voice rings clear over the new rhythms and lyrics found in her latest album, Not Too Late.

Since her big break onto the jazz music scene with 2002's Come Away With Me, an album that earned the singer-songwriter eight Grammys at the 2003 award show — including the coveted Album of the Year and Song of the Year honors — Jones has shown little sign of slowing. On her 2004 CD Feels Like Home, the pianist continued to evolve. Her signature sound gained an added touch of country flair with increasing acoustic influences sneaking into the background. Now, on Not Too Late, Jones again works hard to set herself apart from the rest of the genre, retaining her smoky vocals and piano-driven roots, while throwing in some new twists to keep listeners intrigued.

Produced by Jones' longtime songwriting partner and bassist Lee Alexander in their home studio, the artist's latest release features 13 original songs either written or co-written by Jones herself. The unique melodic feel of every song on the follow up to Feels Like Home combines with Jones' distinctive vocals to create an amazing album from start to finish.

The album kicks off to a refreshing start on "Wish I Could," a soothing track filled with soulful guitar and a gentle melody. Besides having the ability to set the perfect mood for a candlelit dinner, this song offers an interesting segue into the next song, "Sinkin' Soon." The bass and saxophone duo along with a jazzy tickling of the keys on the piano creates a jingle similar to the swinging tunes found in the musical "Chicago." This song easily stands apart from the rest of the tracks and adds the perfect energetic touch to the overall sounds of the album.

The track "Thinking About You" is ideal for an intimate slow dance with that special someone. The production features instruments that combine to create a continuously moving beat guaranteed to make listeners experience three minutes of pure bliss. Although the new album has some innovative sounds and techniques, it still showcases the signature Norah Jones flavor fans have grown to love to spice up the tracks and distinguishes itself from other current music. Her unique and uplifting style creates an album where every track naturally flows into the next song. Before they can even say "Norah Jones rocks," listeners are held in a trance by the tranquil combination of jazz, pop and folk.

Overall, this album is sure to satisfy Jones' admiring fans and newcomers alike. Innovative sounds and old remnants of past CDs combine to create a well-rounded sound on this album. Leave it to Norah Jones to do what she loves, be an individual and continue to leave a lasting mark in the music world.

— Ashley Voss contributed to this review.

Grade: 3.5 out of 5

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