In Tune - July 2003
Rachael Pennell
Papa Said... (Lake)
Bare 'N' Blue (Avid)
I love hearing new girl singers and Rachael Pennell is a British-based addition to the list of attractive up-and-coming females who probably find enough work to fill up their diaries even without the help of the necessary TV and radio coverage they need to establish and expand their profile.
Rachael's first recording, Papa Said... (Lake LACD129) was released in 2000, and with the assistance of the Stan Greig Sextet, she ably sails through a set of well known ballads of bluesy flavour with Don't Explain and Loverman among the highlights which are well suited to the vocal 'umph' her voice conveys, although there is also the occasional poignant aspect she reaches for.
Rachael's latest release is Bare 'n' Blue (Avid RPCD001) and the opening Irvine Berlin number, You'd Be Surprised has not been over-exposed and proves to be the ideal sultry opener, whereas Cry Me A River always retains echoes of the classic Julie London version, but is nonetheless well performed. Embraceable You, For All We Know and I Fall In Love Too Easily are amongst familiar ballads and Salty Papa Blues and Gee Baby provide necessary contrast, with Wild Is The Wind a particular favourite song of mine. Special mention must be given to the brilliant piano skills of arranger, Jack Honeyborne who supports Rachael so sympathetically together with added bass and drums. Recorded partly at Pizza on the Park (though not in performance) Rachael has a very attractive voice, knows how to deliver and is individual enough to make her way in an area well stocked with perky songbirds. There is certainly enough promise to wish for a third collection very soon.
Allen Pollack
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