The Jazz Kings - Heartbreak Hotel
Jazz
Gold Coast, Australia
Overall Impression: The Jazz Kings bring fresh energies to a beloved classic crooner hit, adeptly transforming "Heartbreak Hotel" into a rich and rhythmic jaunt through a laid-back, Jazzy soundscape! Borrowing a quote from Benny Golson's "Killer Joe" for an intro and central melodic motif, The Jazz Kings' rendition of "Heartbreak Hotel" is engaging from start to finish - fully honoring its source materials through a clever and captivating original performance!
Strongest Point(s): Each composite part of The Jazz Kings' sound is sublime in its own right, and the band manages to allow each member a moment to shine brightly over the course of "Heartbreak Hotel"! The full ensemble finds the pocket easily and guards it with care, only stepping forward to contribute colorfully enriching and concisely phrased solo passages to the already magnetic sound. Incredible instrumental tones all around, with a specific nod toward the round warmth of the electric guitar. The lead vocals feel unforced and fully compelling, their smoky timbre conspiring with the overall sound to conjure imagery of candle-lit tables in dark lounges - easily establishing this cover as a playful but careful transposition into the Jazz vernacular!
Target Audience Appeal: Fans of the original will be delighted to hear "Heartbreak Hotel" revived in any form, while discerning listeners and avid Jazz fans will be able to appreciate the careful craftsmanship on display from The Jazz Kings! Further ensnaring those with an ear for the genre, The Jazz Kings' infusion of classic Jazz standards elevates their take on "Heartbreak Hotel" from humdrum cover to heartfelt homage - inspiring an eager ear towards whatever they produce next!
Artist target suggestions: Thelonious Monk, Sammy Davis & Count Basie, Elvis Presley, Quincy Jones, Dizzy Gillespie, Fats Waller, Eric Clapton, Lester Young, Oscar Peterson Trio, We Montgomery, Charlie Parker, Bill Evans, Alex Bird and The Jazz Mavericks, The Red Robin Quartet
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About the Reviewer:
Jon Wright is a trained multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and music educator with nearly twenty years of experience in the field. Working with musicians and their individual sounds is his passion and profession, and he strives to interact with and understand every aspect of the production process - from theory and songwriting to recording and mastering. He continues to teach students of all ages and is currently collaborating with artists in a wide variety of genres.