"Close Up and Real" by Jane

a Review by Amy - Producer of Collected Sounds

For some reason this CD takes me back in time. Perhaps subconsciously it reminds me of some song from the 80s that I can't place. Maybe it's that the cover photo reminds me of a Smith's CD cover. But when I hear it I feel like I'm in high school watching the early days of MTV (yes, I'm that old). Either way, I enjoy listening to it.

Jane's style is a mix of jazz and pop with a little country undertone. Her voice is strong and sweet. Her lyrics clever and her songs catchy.

There's a bit of a religious vibe to some of the songs which gives me a mild case of the willies, but that is just a personal preference and I can over look that for the great songs like "Come What May" and "Til the Next Time".

She has gathered some very talented musicians for this recording and they sound wonderful. This is a polished CD and if you like contemporary pop you ought to give Jane a listen.

Posted on June 13, 2003

Comments:

Rating: 4 Stars
I've got this CD too and I love it. My only complaint is that it's a bit dated in places but that's because it's a collection of songs recorded over several years and some were recorded in the 80's. I do think the songwriting is great though and I'm looking forward to hearing more.
~Simon

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