For anyone who laments the dearth of intelligent, thoughtfully rendered adult contemporary pop these days, Jamie Solow’s songs will come as a godsend. Framing sturdy melodies in uncluttered arrangements that emit an intimate glow, Solow’s music occupies a fertile territory that lies somewhere between the warm simplicity of Tracy Chapman and the textured ambiance of Sarah McLachlan. 
Riddles, Solow’s debut CD, finds the Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter plying her minimalist folk-pop with superb results. Buoyed by a gifted team of backers who subscribe to the credo “less is more,” Solow sings in an everywoman voice that’s perfectly suited to the subdued nature of her compositions. Highlights include the whimsical title track, the reggae-tinged “Don’t Go Dirty,” and the moving ballad, “Joe’s Song,” one of several compositions that prominently feature the elegant piano work of Bob Remstein. Solow may still be struggling to solve riddles, but as debut CDs go, few sound more confident than this one.
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This CD bears repeating over and over and over. The artist is obviously wise in the heart and the world, and her music so nuanced that I find myself enriched by every re-hearing. A distinctive and varied collection of sounds and experiences. A distinctive new voice, as musical and challenging as Joni Mitchell and yet unique. Do yourself a favor and listen!
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