Jess Vincent
Album: Seesaw Dreams
Label: Hatsongs
Tracks: 12
Website: http://www.jessvincentmusic.co.uk

Upon hearing Jess Vincent's solo debut, "Time Frame" I immediately offered her a slot on the Fatea Showcase Sessions as I recognised an artist that was not only an exciting and vibrant singer songwriter, but also an artist that was able to interpret traditional songs and put her own spin on them, "Seesaw Dreams" is an album that builds on both talents.

The traditional song that Jess interprets is the much covered "Silver Dagger" which is a song very familiar to most folkies, many of whom will have their own favourite version and therefore a prejudice to overcome, I don't think she has any worries.

With that exception Jess has penned the entire album albeit with Reg Meuross co-penning three of the songs. He's also one of four musicians that for Jess' band for this cut, as well as taking the behind the desk duties.

Jess Vincent is really starting to turn her hand to so many aspects of song writing, narrative and feeling, both as separate entities and pulled together. Folk sensibilities are by far the strongest influence on the writing style and delivery, with Jess' vocal and band giving it a really lush feel.

"Seesaw Dreams" is a real treasure box of songs, but for me there is a real stand out number, "Annie Bonny", a song written about the famous female pirate that has long fascinated. The song also incorporates the famous words she directed at her one time lover, Jack Rackham, whilst he was waiting to go to the gallows, 'If you had fought like a man, you wouldn't be getting hung like a dog', harsh.

"Seesaw Dreams" is a strong album, one that sees Jess Vincent continue to grow. You can't help be hear that she's got that genuine x factor in her songs and performance; hopefully it will become wider and wider recognised. It certainly makes this an incredibly easy album to recommend.

Neil King