Beady Belle - Cricklewood Broadway

Inspired by the novel White Teeth by Zadie Smith, 'Cricklewood Broadway' sees the acclaimed Norwegian group Beady Belle exploring new territory, abandoning lush country-tinged jazz arrangements in favour of a kind of minimalist soul and funk.

The Beady Belle core of Beate S. Lech on vocals, Marius Reksj� on bass and Erik Holm on drums is augmented by David Wallumr�d on keys and fellow Jazzland Recordings artist, Torun Eriksen provides additional vocals. The melodies and chord progressions, the basic musical nuts and bolts, are all instantly recognizable with Beate's mesmerizing voice sitting high in the mix.

The diversity of the album reflects the inspirational source of Smith's novel. Infectiously funky synth bass lines underpin laid back chord progressions; flashes of reggae hang out with elements from distinctly cooler climates; balladry merges with urban sensibilities; an essence of Prince wafts past a classic RnB record store; Latino rhythms storm through a middle eastern market towards a darkened nightclub.

Personnel: Beate S. Lech (vocals), Marius Reksj� (bass), Erik Holm (drums), David Wallumr�d (keyboards), Torun Eriksen (additional vocals)