author: M. Smith
I stumbled across Layah Jane when she opened for Brian MacMillan at Hugh's Room. What an unbelievable talent! This singer-songwriter is wise beyond her years. Her catchy tunes are bellied by articulate and poetic lyrics and complex musicianship. I am already looking forward to her next album.
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author: b. mclachlan
this album is all that you'd wish for - musically and lyrically rich, with every track bringing something special to the mix. backed by an amazing band of some of toronto's best, layah jane manages to both soothe your soul and inspire your mind to action. she is really one to watch out for. i predict an explosion in the next year for she is already a musical star.
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author: Northeast In Tune (Mike Grutka)
The title gives it away. Layah has something to say and she says it with quick and clever rhyme schemes. Big ideas like "be the change you want to see", infuse her songs with earnestness that doesn't get cheesy. A voice that reminds me of the singer from the early 90's Australian band Frente mixed with a little Joss Stone is complemented nicely by her fusing of jazzy, swing filled reggae inflected grooves.
Coming on the heels of young female artists from Canada who probably have limited shelf life (sorry, Avril) and the juggernaut that is Norah Jones (who donated a session player to the album) Jane firmly ignores the former while not being as traditional as the later. Layah (I keep wanting to sing ‘Layla”) has created a hybrid mix of funky jazz reggae conscious something to say folk pop that enters your ear like cotton candy melts on your tongue.
On the track 'Reverence and Ridicule" she rails against prepackaged fashion and music telling us to keep the next radio song. Layah has more important things to do. Later she wonders, "I wonder sometimes if I have it in me the resiliance it takes to not let it win me" referencing the pressure to churn out pop hooks and catchy choruses at the expense of art.
Don't you worry Layah Jane. You do you do you do.
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author: Monkey Biz (Amy Leask)
"Grievance and Gratitude" is Layah Jane’s inaugural CD, but it is as rich, varied and polished as that of any seasoned professional. Youthful, but wise, with stunning vocals and multi-layered arrangements, "Grievance and Gratitude" delivers the whole package.
Layah’s vocal range is nothing short of spectacular. She is capable of everything from a powerful whisper to a soulful yell. Each song presents different facets of her voice, but she shines in "Dry Wit" and "Firefly". Wonderful vocal harmonies are found in "Capsize". Backing her is an impressive ensemble of instruments. "Press to Me" is a haunting ballad featuring cello and a host of distinctive percussion. Less folk and more contemporary, "Hostage" is powered by an interesting mixture of instrumental effects.
As is the case with many albums, good performances on this CD follow from good raw material. Lyrics are clever, introspective and witty, and are as amusing as the music itself. Melodies and harmonies on the CD are complex, and multifaceted, as is the general tone. Some tracks are whimsical and playful, such as "Saltwater Taffy". Others, such as "Crows", are dark and melancholy. Most impressive is the fact that each song is distinctive, with vocal styles ranging from folk to blues. "Reverence and Ridicule" even incorporates a touch of reggae.
The songs on "Grievance and Gratitude" refuse to be defined, and the CD as a whole stands out because of its ability to balance powerful vocals with clever lyrics and complex instrumental arrangements. This sort of balance is s a daunting task for any artist, but in Layah’s case, it’s what makes her distinct from other popular artists, and impressive in her own right. Vocally, instrumentally and lyrically, Layah Jane’s music is emotionally compelling and multi-layered, but still infused with humour and playfulness. Great things are to be expected from this new artist.
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