It’s rare that you will hear me sing the praises of social media and the impact it’s had on our lives. However, this seems to be one of those rare occasions. Scrolling through Instagram roughly 10-12 months ago, I came across a video of a New York based singer demonstrating vocal flair by scatting a transcribed Cannonball solo. That singer is named April Varner and her debut album April is the album of the week pick for this week. Yes, I own a calendar but just because its March doesn’t mean that we can’t be looking forward to spring. And what better way than with an album that expertly blends tradition with modernity?
The opening track tactfully introduces the theme of the album – an homage to April, the season with which she shares a name – and, as an original composition for vocals and double bass, showcases the timeless timbre of Varner’s voice. The sparseness of this track deliberately draws you in to the album; once you are there, you are not going to want to leave. Two tracks in, Varner gifts us with an absolute treat in the form a Pat Metheny classic ‘Joy of April’ (originally named ‘April Joy’), a contrast to the first number – in name and feel. Straight out of the gate, Varner comes into this track with a detailed and compelling scat of Metheny’s flowing guitar melody. Bringing us back to earth, the next track is a slick version of Simon & Garfunkel’s ‘April Come She Will’. The vocal delivery, whether in Varner’s vibrato or ornamentations, reminds me of our album of the week from Burn’s night (Eddi Reader’s ‘The Songs of Robert Burns’). I suppose Paul Simon has always had an affinity for writing folk-inspired pieces, but Varner comes at it with a refreshing sound, cooly paired with a mellow archtop guitar. Continuing through the album, April gives us more jazz standards in the form of ‘April in Paris’ and ‘Lost April’. However, surrounding these tracks are more contemporary pieces; a version of Frank Ocean’s ‘Dear April’ is one and the other is an original Varner composition titled ‘Who Let April Back into My Dreams?’. This, the second half of the album, especially exemplifies Varner’s musical balance and versatility.
As an award-winning jazz singer, with countless qualifications and accolades, this review is just a drop in a wide ocean of high-praising articles. Nonetheless, we wanted to shine a light on this album for our readers who are searching for a new release that boasts original compositions as well as original takes on timeless (albeit perhaps lesser known) classics. So, if you’re looking for a virtuosic vocal jazz album that takes you through energetic highs and sombre lows, this is perfect for you.
Waxing Lyrical 