Album review: SASKIA – Are You Listening?

www.saskiagm.com [Release date 31.07.20]

Saskia certainly has an interesting backstory, giving up her Harley Street practice in 2013 to pursue her real passion, singing. Starting out by busking around the UK leading onto being a regular on the acoustic music scene in the UK and Europe.

This album is the first in a two album deal with America’s Susanne Marcus Collins Foundation, Inc. and is a collection of music to date (with two new songs) re-recorded in a more acoustic setting.

Saskia is joined on the album by David Ian Roberts (guitar), Thomas Holder (double bass), Ali Petrie (piano) and Gabriella Swallow (cello).

‘Best Of You’ is the first of two new songs, a feel good message about kindness and being the best you can. ‘Come Comfort Me’ however focuses on darker times in life. Both bode well for her next album, which is currently being recorded.

The title track of the collection highlights Saskia’s vocals, which certainly make sure you are listening. ‘Bring It Down’ could have come from the glory years of Joni Mitchell’s 70’s output. Simply stunning to listen to on headphones.

The oft covered ‘Hallelujah’ is nicely done, with a simple musical arrangement and another fine vocal performance from Saskia. It is a song to really bring out a singer’s strengths and emotion.

Saskia has a wonderfully soothing vocal, which has been compared to the likes of Joni Mitchell and Eva Cassidy. She certainly has the voice to make the listener pay attention and enjoy the music. A prefect introduction to Saskia’s music to date. ***1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie

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