Since the success of artists like Norah Jones and Madeleine Peyroux there have been many imitators. Many striving to capture the smooth, sensual feel of Norah or reaching for the retro, Billie Holiday-esque romance of Madeleine but few have been successful.
MoZella could be, at first glance, mistaken for such an imitator but that would be a purely shallow observation. MoZella’s sound reflects the romance and jazzy smoothness of Norah and Madeleine, the pop/hip-hop of Nelly Furtado and the energetic soul sounds of Macy Gray. It is original, fresh, intelligent pop music.
This 24 year old singer/songwriter from Detroit began learning her craft in the coffee houses around her home town. At 18 she moved to Los Angels to chase her dream of becoming a recording artist and performer. She signed with the Madonna-founded record label Maverick and now, three years and one EP later, she is releasing her much anticipated debut album I Will.
I Will has quickly become one of my favourite albums and is definitely going on my top ten albums of the year list. It has a smooth jazzy feel as a result of MoZella’s earthy, soul infused voice and pop melodies. This is combined with lyrics that are interesting and clever without being pompous or over experimental; lyrics that everyone can identify with, about the ups and downs of love and life.
Although I Will starts off with the rather unimpressive “You Wanted It” — not her strongest track with its electric organ and midi-esque feel — this is one of the few stumbles on what is otherwise a fabulous album. The second track, “Love Is Something” is an upbeat, handclapping, hooky pop song with the energy of young love poured into it.
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