Singer Paula Harris channels the sound of the blues and jazz clubs of yesteryear bon her new album Speakeasy. Backed by seasoned veterans - pianist Nate Ginsberg (Herbie Hancock, Sly & The Family Stone), bassist Rich Girard (Mose Allison, Lou Rawls) and drummer Derrick “D’Mar” Martin (Little Richard) she is allowed to shine with her smooth yet tough delivery.
She is a strong presence and sharp songwriter, who doesn't suffer fools gladly and take shit from nobody. And it seems that regrets are overrated when she goes all in for Wanna Hate Myself Tomorrow (For Raising Hell Tonight). Writing a fresh stack of lyrics for Thelonious Monk’s Round Midnight is further proof that she is using the classics on her own conditions. The music may be soft and laidback, but Speakeasy is as intoxicating as the beverages that they used to serve there.
