Album Notes

This is my first album with originals co-written with lyricist Sal Burgess who brings her own brand of poetry with quotes from the classics. Also a first with this quartet, a group of young and creative musicians . The album for me is exciting and has lots of energy and I just love the way these guys groove. This is cross-over jazz with all the elements I love. I hope you enjoy it.
JAZZTIMES "Desires" (CD) Review By Leslie Connors
With the mammoth success of English firebrand Adele, the door is now wide open for British female singers with soul power in their vocals. Originating from West London, England, Linley Weir certainly has the singing chops to fill the void in market demand although the music on her new album “Desires” is not pop nor rock but classic vocal jazz in the spirit of Cassandra Wilson. But Weir’s songs have crossover appeal in the same way that Norah Jones’ piano ballads were able to capture the hearts of the masses.

Normally I recommend listening to an album in its proper order, from start to finish. For those not familiar with Weir, I’d start with its finale, the title track. It is here that Weir truly unveils the raw emotion in her voice; to the uninitiated, it’s an instant ear grab. Set to Danny Keane’s piano backdrop thick with mood-spinning atmosphere, Weir sings in a wounded, low register. There is a chillingly beautiful feel to this melancholic tale of longing that is hard to shake off. It offers that “wow” moment, delivering an immediate knockout, a two-fisted punch to the gut. Weir seems to summon all the pain and love from her heart and display it to the world. Such intimacy is why we listen to music.

After that, proceed to the beginning. On “Softly As in the Morning Sunrise,” Keane’s driving piano, Tom Fry’s pumping bass, and Brian Hedemann’s slamming drums help open the record on a brisk, jubilant note. On “Caught by This Embrace,” Weir recalls the ice-cool crooning of Sade but with bluesy grit; Keane’s piano playing is especially engaging here, lifting the spirits with soaring melodies. “Fly Away” offers breezy romantic escapism, showcasing Weir’s lighter side.

“Desires” is only Weir’s second album but she’s already impressing with the craftsmanship and maturity of an established veteran.