Admittedly, some of the instrumentals on Kinny’s debut long-player are a little on the sappy side. Yet, there is something intriguing about this funk/soul diva from Canada with Jamaican, Native Canadian Indian, French and Swedish heritage that cuts through even the glossiest patchwork instrumental. I have never been a big TM Juke fan, and the Souldrop instrumentals aren’t anything to write home about. Unforscene, Hint, and Diesler always have their moments, though, and they try their very best here. Most importantly, the Quantic Soul Orchestra and Nostalgia 77 contributions, rich with vibrant organic instrumentation that land their efforts much closer to the true soul of funk, are as great as anything on their respective albums.
No matter who provides the music, the gripping voice of Caitlin “Kinny” Simpson shines on brilliantly. She is the real deal, an Alice Russell or Amy Winehouse type without the attitude. The weaker instrumentals never get in the way, and the good one let her shine in all the ways she should. Remember this woman’s name. If you ignore it, it will haunt you.