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For Cynthia Basinet, her voice itself is an instrument; in terms of emotional power, it's a lethal weapon. Sensual, emotionally damaged and world-weary, Basinet's vocals have the makings of a film noir femme fatale. Her midnight blue voice on The Collection can conjure black and white images of ill-fated romance, especially on "Just" and "Eventually." Set to a crestfallen piano backdrop, "Eventually" expresses deep-seated feelings of love lost; the heartbreaking ache in her vocals reveals real, honest pain.
However, melancholia is only side of Basinet's persona. In this compilation of her work, she juggles with light and darkness. The giddy sweetness of her cover of "Santa Baby" is miles apart from the fresh wounds of "Haunted Heart." Furthermore, the electronica tracks "Yellow Taxi" and "God" unveil a completely different side of her artistry. For those not familiar with Basinet's previous recordings, such varied elements might seem confusing. But this is a career retrospective, after all, and the most exciting musicians are the unpredictable ones.
Nevertheless, it's obvious where Basinet's strengths are. On the slower songs, where Basinet can croon her heart's desires, she has a commanding presence. Her version of the oft-covered "Someone To Watch Over Me" has undeniable charm; her voice truly soars, dripping with sultry yearning.
Because of Basinet's background as a model and actress, there are some who probably won't take her music seriously. However, even the most skeptical will have a hard time resisting the gripping drama of "Water's Edge."
Visit Cynthia Basinet on the web.
Cynthia Basinet at All About Jazz.
Track listing: Just; Someone To Watch Over Me; Santa Baby; Haunted Heart; Water's Edge; Eventually; Tea for Two; Yellow Taxi; God; You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To.
Personnel: Cynthia Basinet: vocals; other musicians unspecified.
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