Soul Sessions, The - Joss Stone > Reviews > A monumental modern take on old soul classics...

Author's product rating:   

Originality
Lyrics
Quality and consistency of tracks
Value for Money

Advantages:	A fantastic revival of soul greats with a fresh young twist
Disadvantages:	The album doesn't reveal the variety in Joss's voice enough

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

I bought 'Soul Sessions' mainly out of curiousity. I am a great fan of soul music and the idea of a new artist giving old soul classics and some new songs a twist and a youthful vitality fascinated me. Although not entirely sure what to expect, Soul Sessions certainly didn't disappoint.

Upon hearing the first track 'Chokin Kind', you will undoubtedly feel a connection to the velvety tones of Joss's voice. One of the magnificent things about this album is that it sums up soul perfectly, whilst at the same time, Joss manages to add her own twist to the soul greats and new songs she sings. Soul is real and painful and what I felt when I heard this album, from the funky riffs of 'Fell in love with a Boy' to the mellow beats of 'Victim of a Foolish Heart', was a pain that was transmitted with a purity of voice, but also a performance style that was larger than life.

The fact that Joss is a 16 year old English girl from Devon, makes no difference to the reality of the experience. From the beginning to the end, the album is real in its exploration of love, loss and heartache. But it is a joyful and addictive experience. I wonder how my life would feel without this as its current, and likely to be enduring, soundtrack. It is a joy to experience. Joss has a rare and unpretencious talent that has been captured fantastically in this album.