"A Modern Art" is a captivating vocal jazz album by British jazz vocalist Claire Martin, released in 2009 on Linn Records. This collection of 13 tracks showcases Martin's mature talent and her unique perspective on jazz as a contemporary art form. The album is a testament to her growth as an artist, featuring a terrific band with many long-term collaborators, and is often considered one of her finest recordings.
The album opens with "Everything I've Got Belongs to You" and closes with "Nirvana," taking listeners on a journey through a mix of funk, blues, driving bass, and swinging horns. Martin's powerful vocals and the band's exceptional musicianship create an engaging and dynamic listening experience. The songs on "A Modern Art" are strong on lyrics, with Martin offering an acerbic look at the challenges of being a jazz musician in the celebrity-obsessed 21st century.
"Love Is Real" and "Love of Another" highlight Martin's ability to convey deep emotion and connection, while tracks like "So Twentieth Century" and "Totally" showcase her wit and playfulness. The album also includes a cover of Rodgers and Hart's "A Modern Art," demonstrating Martin's versatility and her ability to put her unique stamp on classic material.
With a duration of 52 minutes, "A Modern Art" is a compelling addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection. Claire Martin's powerful vocals, combined with the exceptional musicianship of her band, create an album that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Whether you're a long-time fan of Claire Martin or new to her work, "A Modern Art" is an album that demands your attention and rewards repeated listens.
Vinylscout