By David Malachowski
Reviewer

ARTIST: Ria Curley

ALBUM: “Take Me”

Saratoga Springs jazz singer Ria Curley has her own take on smooth jazz and R&B with a retro-pop sensibility.

And an amazing voice.

These 10 tracks have a common thread — love. And she takes the theme from start to finish, from looking for love (“I’ll Help You Find What You’re Looking For”); wanting love (“Ready 4 Luv”); about to have love (“Can’t Wait To Get You Alone” and “Take Me”); and romantic love (“Every Day You’re Mine is Valentines Day”).

Curley used a handful of different producers here, and the CD has a lush, full sound. But at times, the tracks can seem a bit dated and cliché.

Curley is anything but, with a fantastic range, power and flexibility that just lifts these tunes to higher ground, from the gorgeous “Can I Bring You Flowers,” to the soaring “Baby do U Mis-is Me?”

But she’s at her emotional best without all the bells and whistles, when she turns “Something’s Changed” into something memorable and magical with just a piano and her stunning voice.

Curley has a remarkable instrument, it soars, twirls and spins like a gymnast and she always lands on her feet. Keep an eye out for her (or is that ear?).

Visit www.riacurleymusic.com. Continued...

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David Malachowski is a guitarist, producer and freelance journalist living in Woodstock. The Freeman seeks CDs by local artists or artists appearing locally for review. Please send all CDs (please no CD-Rs or demo CDs) to Daily Freeman c/o Preview, 79 Hurley Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401.

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