CD review: Introducing JOSS STONE

[KiwiCoromandel]

When Joss Stone released her bestselling debut in 2003 many a jaw dropped when people realised the stunning voice of what sounded like a black woman in her late 20s came from a 16-year-old English lass.

Critics were divided and while some were impressed with her choice of covers - The White Stripes' Fell in Love with a Boy - others felt she was hyped at the expense of gutsier soul singers including fellow Brit Amy Winehouse.

Stone sceptics won't change their mind after Introducing Joss Stone, her third outing, but there's a consistency and strength to several tracks that at least prove her initial success wasn't a fluke.

Her voice is superb and the 60s soul is rebooted with strong 21st century R&B.

Stone soars on a couple of her co-penned tunes including the bass-heavy Girl They Won't Believe It, Headturner and the Stax-influenced Tell Me 'Bout It.

But the highlight is Put Your Hands on Me - a rich blend of Beyonce-style R&B. Guest appearances elsewhere by rappers Common and Lauryn Hill are more interesting then essential.

Love or hate her, Stone has delivered an album with real soul.

source:TOM CARDY/The Dominion Post

image:reuters:JOSS STONE..."Put your Hands on Me"...