Esperanza

Esperanza Spalding's self-titled album, Esperanza, is a relaxing and gorgeous treat for the senses. The album's first song, "Ponta De Areia," is a beautiful and lulling tune that invites the listener to utterly and completely let oneself enjoy the album. "Samba Em Preludio" is another lovely, yet different, song that the muse belts out. "Fall In" is a jazz and easy listening song, just as good as any famous female jazz crooner ever belted out. Spalding's music encourages her listeners to just submit to the pleasant ambiance, and enjoy her smoky and full voice. Sung in both English and Portuguese, the album is defined by a definitive Jazz flavor, while also taking on a romantic one. There is obviously a Portuguese influence as well as a Spanish and Caribbean infusion, added to the familiar English strains of soul-grabbing jazz. This is a great new collection for the jazz and contemporary adult music fans out there.