Norah Jones
The Fall
Blue Note Records
www.bluenote.com

Kristina Train
Spilt Milk
Blue Note Records
www.bluenote.com
By George W. Harris

Just like in the Big Band Era, it’s the money brought in from the
female singers that make it possible for the musicians to be able to
afford to play whatever they want. In this case, the success (or
potential success) of these two vocalists allow guys like Joe Lovano to
play two horned saxophones.

Norah Jones retains Jesse Harris on this disc, and brings into the fold
Marc Ribot/f, James Poysner/key, and James Gadson-Joey Waronker/dr
along for a varied and strong release that goes from the dreamily
swinging “Young Blood” to the hilariously romantic rover “Man Of The
Hour.” Her voice retains that Starbucks folksiness that combines
reflective nuances with pensive passions. She slyly coaxes through
“Chasing Pirates” while keeping at arms length during “You’ve Ruined
Me.” The songs themselves range from a single guitar to full indie
band, and she sounds comfortable in her own skin. Confident in her
element and niche, she gently edges forward with each release.

For her debut release, hickory smoke voiced Kristina Train works with
producer/writer Jimmy Hogarth and arranger/writer Eg White for a set of
originals that run the gamut of heart on your sleeve emotions. Many of
the songs, like the title track and “No Man’s Land” have catchy
choruses that have show-tune type climaxes, complete with full
orchestral support. Her voice, with that sort of soulful and earthy
Dusty Springfield hitch in her get along, gets down and despondent on
tunes like “Don’t Beg For Love” and “I Can’t But Help,” while coming up
a for a bit of air on the lighter “Far From The Country.” Soulful and
vulnerable, Train keeps a rolling on this impressive opening hand.