Rachelle Ferrell
@ the Jazz Cafe, London
July 2001

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“A rare opportunity to witness ‘Individuality’ and musicianship at its best!”

My introduction to this incredibly versatile Philadelphia born contemporary Jazz singer / songwriter / pianist / composer and producer, was a few years ago when she supported David Sanborn. At that time Ferell physically occupied only a small part of the stage with her keyboard (like many supporting acts do). But her performance and stage presence encompassed the whole stage and beyond. I remember walking into the venue (forgotten which one), as she performed her then self-titled, mostly self-penned British debut album while seats were filling. Slowly but surely the audience attention started to focus on Rachelle. Her personal, sensual and seductive vocals drew us in. Ferrell's confidence, self-awareness and versatility have since grown with each subsequent recording.

Ferrell concentrated mainly on material from her latest “Individuality (can I be me)” album throughout her Jazz Café gig. Starting with the aptly titled “Individuality (can I be me)”, and “Sista”. Both unique self-empowerment anthems that encouraged a mini feminine uprising, and sense of unity. Women rejoined their partners spiritually and a sense of togetherness was achieved during the gentle vocally swaying duet “Reflections Of My Heart”, performed with her brother Russ Barnes. Later Ferrell briefly offered her audience an impromptu lively, a cappella version of “Bye Bye Black Bird”, when requested by an audience member. (Which can be found on her ‘First Instrument’, mainly standards album).

I feel obliged to mention Ferrell’s exceptional ‘six and then some’ octave range. But this is not the full story. Unlike other artists blessed with the ability to shatter a glass or two by ‘mechanically reproducing a note’. Ferrell's voice resonates with great depth and sensuality. An extremely mesmerising performance from a spiritual and giving artist, who’s powerful and precise vocals left the sold out Jazz Cafe feeling energised. I really felt as though Ferrell was pouring her heart from a gold goblet straight to my soul with every breath. She can vocally caress you, then at a blink of an eye singe your hairline with controlled souring power.

I was hoping and praying for her to perform “Nothing has ever felt like this”, which is a richly layered, beautifully arranged duet with Will Downing (taken from her debut album), Or perhaps “Gaia” - which is another spine tingling duet with Jonathon Butler. But then I would have really been spoilt!