Album – Natalie Claire Entertainment

Sway

Natalie Claire Jazz Band

An independent album, fully funded and produced by Natalie Claire.

Released in 2024, Sway is a collection of classic swing, luscious ballads and latin jazz tunes delivered by some of the finest jazz musicians in Australia. This album encapsulates Natalie Claire’s ongoing journey reinventing and interpreting the most beloved jazz standards.

Natalie Claire: Vocals

Miroslaw Galczynski: Piano, keys & guiro

Nicholas Powning: Double bass

Steve Ley: Drums & shaker

Track Listing:

The Girl From Ipanema
The Very Thought of You
Blue Skies
Misty
Don’t Get Around Much Anymore
So Nice
One Note Samba
In a Sentimental Mood
Night and Day
Route 66
Sway

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NATALIE CLAIRE JAZZ BAND
‘SWAY’
Album Review

10th September 2024

Review by Audrey Songvilay (Amplify)

There’s no doubt that jazz music has found a special place in the hearts of musicians and listeners alike. With its soulful swing, jazz has traveled from the vibrant streets of New Orleans to the smoky clubs of Paris, evolving into a dynamic and diverse genre. Artists today are not just preserving the classics; they are reimagining them, blending traditional elements with fresh, contemporary flavours that resonate with modern audiences. Natalie Claire Jazz Band, with their 2024 release “Sway”, exemplifies this fusion beautifully. The album offers a sumptuous mix of swing, ballads, and Latin jazz that feels both timeless and thrillingly new. Let’s explore each track and uncover how this band revitalises beloved jazz classics.

“Don’t Get Around Much Anymore” kicks things off with a swinging tune. Natalie Claire’s vocals are lively and full of personality, and it feels like she’s having the time of her life. The piano is punchy and syncopated, keeping the vibe upbeat and irresistibly catchy. The bass has got a bounce that’ll get your foot tapping whether you’re at a party or just chilling at home. The band adds their own modern twist while keeping that old-school swing spirit alive. It’s a track that’ll make you want to dance, even if you’re just grooving solo in your living room.

“Blue Skies” is where the Natalie Claire Jazz Band really hits their groove and things start to swing. Right from the start, the energy just grabs you. The vocals are full of joy, and you can feel that happiness in every note. The piano is super lively, with bouncy, playful chords that really make the whole thing pop. The bass and drums keep everything tight, giving the track a rhythm that’s impossible not to tap along to. Their version of “Blue Skies” is like a ray of sunshine—it’s warm, uplifting, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. It’s one of those songs that sticks with you, making the whole album feel brighter and more fun.

We start to feel more sultry with Latin-infused “Sway.” It’s both seductive and exhilarating. From the moment it begins, you can feel the track pull you in with its irresistible charm. The vocals glide effortlessly over the beat, drawing you deeper into the groove. There’s something smooth and magnetic about the delivery, making it easy to lose yourself in the rhythm. The band is perfectly in sync here, creating a lush, layered sound that captures the song’s sensuality. The keys add just the right amount of flair, bringing a touch of elegance to the arrangement, while the bass and drums create a steady, swaying pulse that feels almost hypnotic. The whole track feels like a dance—fluid, passionate, and full of life. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to close your eyes, move with the music, and get lost in the moment.

“Misty” is easily one of the standout tracks on the album, capturing a haunting and mesmerising mood from the start. The slow, sultry pace gives every word space to breathe, allowing each phrase to linger just long enough for the emotion to settle in. The song’s delicate arrangement creates a dreamlike, almost ethereal atmosphere that wraps around you like a fog. The gentle touch of the piano adds to this effect, crafting a soft, impressionistic feel that complements the vocals perfectly. The bass provides a deep, subtle foundation that adds to the sense of mystery, while the drumming is kept minimal, with soft cymbal washes enhancing the track’s smoky, intimate vibe. It’s the kind of song that feels like it’s pulling you into a different world—slowly, deliberately, and with a quiet power.

“So Nice” brings an irresistible Latin flair to the album, effortlessly transporting you to a warm, breezy escape. The vocals glide over the smooth bossa nova rhythm with ease, adding a light and airy touch to the track. The whole band nails the laid-back vibe, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels like a getaway. The arrangement is kept light and breezy, adding just the right amount of sparkle to the song’s easygoing charm. Meanwhile, the steady bass gives the track a calming pulse, holding everything together while the drums keep it all soft and rhythmic. The gentle brushes create a soothing texture that perfectly complements the relaxed, carefree vibe. This version of “So Nice” really captures the essence of the song, making it feel effortless and natural.

“One Note Samba” is a lively, rhythmically intricate track that really shows off the band’s musical chops. The vocals are crisp and on point, effortlessly navigating the tricky melody with a sense of ease that makes it all sound so natural. The piano adds a playful energy, dancing across the keys with a light touch that’s both fun and impressive. The bass keeps everything grounded with tight, rhythmic lines that anchor the more complex patterns, while the drumming injects just the right amount of punch to keep things lively. The band’s take on this tune strikes a perfect balance between technical brilliance and a sense of fun, making it both sophisticated and accessible. You can tell they’re enjoying themselves, and that energy is contagious. It’s one of those tracks that makes you appreciate their skill while also getting swept up in the infectious rhythm. It’s a perfect blend of playfulness and precision.

“In a Sentimental Mood” is beautiful and emotional all at once. It’s definitely a highlight on the album, showcasing the band’s ability to capture deep feeling through music. The vocals are soft and tender, with a heartfelt delivery that feels personal. The piano creates a delicate atmosphere, with gentle, almost impressionistic notes that evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia. The bass provides a warm, steady foundation that subtly enhances the track’s underlying melancholy, while the minimal drumming adds soft touches that elevate the mood without overpowering it. The whole band works together as they let the song breathe and allow the emotion to speak for itself. Their take on this classic is a masterclass in subtlety—there’s no rush, no over-the-top flourishes, just a quiet, lingering beauty that stays with you long after the final note fades.

“Night and Day” is just a little bit flirty. Not in a tacky sense. It oozes sophistication while still feeling fresh and modern. The vocals are sultry, delivering the lyrics with a sleek elegance that fits the song’s timeless vibe. The piano dances lightly through the melody, balancing playful flourishes with a refined touch, while the bass keeps things tight and rhythmic, laying down a solid groove that holds it all together. The drums bring just the right amount of energy, giving the track a lively pulse without overpowering its laid-back charm. What’s great about this version of “Night and Day” is how the band respects the classic elements but isn’t afraid to infuse it with their own contemporary spin. It’s classy and cool but never feels stiff, making it as much fun to listen to now as it must have been when it first hit the scene.

“The Girl From Ipanema” has q sun-soaked vibe that instantly transports you to the beaches of Rio. The vocals float effortlessly over the rhythm. Meanwhile, the bass and drums create an easygoing groove that pulls you in, making it impossible not to sway along. The band’s take on this iconic tune strikes the perfect balance between honouring the original and giving it a fresh twist. There’s a lightness and warmth in the performance that feels breezy yet polished, capturing the essence of the song while infusing it with their own contemporary flair.

“Route 66” is a total blast of high energy that perfectly captures the excitement of hitting the open road. The vocals are full of life, delivering each lyric with a sense of adventure and fun that fits the road-trip theme just right. The piano work drives the rhythm with a sense of momentum that makes you want to get up and dance. The bass lines are bouncy and full of groove, locking in with the snappy drumming to create a rhythm section that’s both tight and swinging. The band really nails the essence of this classic tune, bringing a joyful, infectious energy that’s hard to resist. It’s a fun, vibrant take on “Route 66” that keeps things professional while still letting the good times roll.

“The Very Thought of You” is a beautifully tender ballad that perfectly captures the essence of romance. The slow tempo allows each instrument to shine. The piano provides a delicate counterpoint to the vocals, adding a layer of poignancy that enhances the song’s emotional depth. The bass grounds the track with a warm, resonant presence, while the drumming is subtle, using brushes to create a soft, whispery texture. The band’s take on this classic is sincere and heartfelt, showcasing their ability to convey deep feelings with a graceful touch. It’s a standout moment on the album, filled with beauty and subtlety.