I really have to ask myself whether there is any real point in me saying anything about this album. After all, Jac Holzman says "unless I've lost my bearing, this is one of the tastiest pop albums of recent memory. And I say 'pop' in the Carole King sense". Now, this is the Jac Holzman who founded Elektra Records and signed The Doors, The Paul Butterfield Blues Band and Judy Collins amongst a myriad of others. So who are you going to believe? Me or him?
Mind you, Mr Holzman must be about a hundred years old know, and goodness knows how many faculties he has left. However, in this instance I do have to agree with him. Because this is an iridescent record, one of shapes, colours, textures and melodies. Above all else, melodies. Granted, the opening track didn't really grab me, but from 'So Far So Bad', I was completely and utterly hooked. Ms Mendelson has some previous form, having recorded an album with the band Mother Freedom as well as her self-released debut "Take It As You Will". But I'm sure it's all been leading towards this incredibly assured offering.
Not a note is wasted as she moves effortlessly between ballads like 'Rest Of London', upbeat pop songs like 'I See Myself With You' and jazzy turns like 'Hit The Spot'. Ten of the eleven songs are originals, mainly written with Steve McEwan, resulting in a set that has a rare, timeless quality only great albums can achieve.
