This is an Enhanced CD, which contains both regular audio tracks and multimedia computer files.
This is an Enhanced CD, which contains both regular audio tracks and multimedia computer files.
Personnel include: Katie Melua (vocals, guitar); Chris Spedding, Jim Cregan (guitar); Mike Batt (piano, organ); Tim Harries (bass instrument); Henry Spinetti, Michael Kruk (drums).
Recording information: 2003.
Any notions of Katie Melua being a calculated Norah Jones knockoff fly out the window within seconds of listening to the jazzy chanteuse's wispy, sultry voice on her debut CALL OFF THE SEARCH. Like her idol, the late Eva Cassidy, in tribute to whom Melua penned the fetching "Faraway Voice," the young singer is clearly one of those fortunate souls who feels music in every fiber of their being.
It's somewhat surprising to note that the songs, which have the feel of Gramophone antiquity, were actually written by the singer herself or her mentor Mike Batt. Mixed in with the originals are some truly lovely covers including a heart-wrenching rendition of Randy Newman's "I Think It's Going to Rain Today" and a soulful version of John Mayall's "Crawling Up a Hill." Melua's vocals lie somewhere between the introverted pop quiver of Sarah McLachlan and the debauched croon of Billie Holiday, an otherworldly and appealing voice that makes CALL OFF THE SEARCH an intriguing first outing.
'Call Off The Search' is the debut album from Georgia born singer/songwriter Katie Melua. Produced and co-written by Mike Batt, the album is a mix of contemporary adult pop, jazz, blues and world music. The single 'The Closest Thing To Crazy' is also included.
