(Vocal Jazz) Anya Singleton - Not Easy to Forget [EP] - 2005, MP3, 320 kbps

The second release from big-voiced bluesy jazz belter Anya Singleton expands her repertoire beyond standards into grittier blues, even rock, territory. She's more than up to the task, knowing when to give a line her full-throated potential and when to rein it in (both are at play on the opening "I'm Just Fine" and the title track). "Silver and Gold" is hot to the touch, a decadent dessert, and Singleton delivers its sharp lyric with delicious tartness, while holding her own against the dinner club bop of "One Trick Pony." While this EP's length may disappoint, its songs will not; Not Easy to Forget was widely lauded among indie critics upon its release for good reason. Singleton works the jazz-blues idiom like few others among her contemporaries, and this short album marries her adept voice to great lyrics and rangy arrangements. Strongly recommended.