This recording was inspired by one of my favorite albums of all time “Sarah Sings Soulfully” recorded in 1963. I had wanted for years to explore a line up featuring Organ, Guitar and Drums as the main backing section for a vocal album with horns featured as well in the line up. I had done many gigs ending with a blues tune, and people often asked my why I didn’t do a blues album or more blues tunes in my set. It was often “Sugar in My Bowl” (Nina Simone) featured on this album or “Baby, Baby All the Time” which was brought to my attention by the wonderful Shirley Horn – who I was lucky enough to perform see “live” in 2000 during a fleeting visit to Washington D.C at the Bohemian Caverns.This recording features the amazing Canadian born guitarist, Dominic Ashworth who I have worked with for many years, and has more recently been getting the attention he so deserves from the mainstream British press. Nic France (Loose Tubes, Terry Callier, Tanita Tikaram) whose sensitive and intuitive drumming and percussion has featured on my other recordings. Hammond Organ player Pete Whittaker – well known in London as one of the best and busiest organ players. Just a day in the studio was all we had and so the vibe of the rhythm section is reflective of a “live” sound. John Hoare is a sensitive yet inventive player trumpet player, whose tasteful licks and solos provide the perfect foil. The repertoire is drawn from inspirations thanks to Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, Nancy Wilson, Shirley Horn and Miriam Aida.