CD Review: Gwen Hughes - Instead Of Light

Gwen Hughes - Instead Of Light
2006, Fairfield Records

Imagine if Tina Turner and Cassandra Wilson somehow combined genetic material and a child was born of the experiment. She might well sound like Gwen Hughes. Hughes delivers a powerful and compelling performance on her CD Instead Of Light.

Instead Of Light is full of interesting song choices and arrangements. Her cover of Time Of The Season is beautiful to hear, although a bit slower than you might imagine it. She opens the set with Born In Bethlehem, a blues laden take on the gospel standard. Also of note are the sensuous Come To Me and a cover of Led Zeppelin's Whole Lotta Love (combined with You Need Love). Come To Me is a beautiful take, while the Zeppelin cover is slowed down to the point of being almost painful. Other highlights include Prizefight and Ev'rytime We Say Goodbye.

Gwen Hughes is an exciting talent. Although Instead Of Light would suggest that her vocal range may be somewhat limited, Hughes rings everything she can out of the voice she has. The result is highly entertaining and enjoyable. Instead Of Light is great cabaret jazz perfect for an old style supper club, an uptown club or just lounging around at home.

Rating: 3.5 Stars (Out of 5)

You can learn more about Gwen Hughes at http://www.gwenhughes.com/. You can purchase a copy of Instead Of Light at www.cdbaby.com/cd/gwenhughes4.