Joni NehRita - A Fine Time

As was shown in previous reviews of Shelly Bhushan, Nicole Willis and the Soul Investigators and Slakah the Beatchild, if I'm going to review an R&B artist, then there has to be something truly unique and slightly old school about them. Over the top production, heavy thumping drum machines and "lookit how great a singer I am" vocal gymnastics just simply do not do it for me! If you dig that, that's cool, but just don't come to my site looking for it.

Having said that, Joni NehRita is none of those things. She actually falls more into a smooth jazz category, but thankfully she takes her cues from the Stevie Wonders of the world, as opposed to the Kenny G's. 'Not That Deep,' for example, is an excellent pop song with a slight Latin feel, and the restraint that Joni displays in her vocals makes it all the more compelling. Reminds me a bit of Steely Dan for some reason. If you know me, that's one of the highest compliments you can get. 'You Left' is one of those old school jams that I was mentioning before. As the song reaches the two and a half minute mark, it's funkiness gives way to bluesier territory, making it wonderfully eclectic. The hookiest tune of the bunch is 'How 2 Get Thru.' It's one of those songs you'll find yourself humming at various points throughout the day. Very catchy. Admittedly, 'Star' ventures a little too close to elevator music territory for me, and the attempt at reggae on 'The Way Of The World' doesn't quite work, (although lyrically, the song is quite powerful) but overall, this CD is a very promising debut by an artist that definitely has breakout potential.

Joni played her first show of the year in Montreal and CBC Radio 3 reviewed it here. Her CD release party is at Hugh's Room in Toronto on April 15th.

Myspace: Joni NehRita
Video: 'On My Way' Live @ Lala Lounge on youtube
Purchase: 'A Fine Time' over at CDBaby