Jemma

With her first independent release 'Afterglow' (2002) Jemma had only began to touch on nurturing her songwriting talent and vocal style. While accumulating a bundle of fresh new songs, the responsibilities of motherhood injected a deepened maturity into her hauntingly clear voice, and the bluesy, soulful shape of the songs to come began to take form...

'I got my new band together and blasted the songs out live, again and again, until I realized just how my heart longed for a simple song, strong and clear ... After a 're-think', I've come with an acoustic line-up, a refreshing contrast to Afterglow's production' It's brilliant playing with a full acoustic band, but I also recognized that the songs live from the melodic vocal harmonies. The feedback I got from gigs with simple vocals, guitar and backings arrangements was phenomenal'

'Then my big question was; 'Where do I go from here? I have a band, I have solid, accessible songs, I have even accumulated a tried and trusted audience, but what next?'

'I'll be honest, after experiencing the music industry climate first-hand, I understand what an artist has to deal with, and what can be required to shape a product. I see my job is to focus on delivering a song that has the ability to reach out and emotionally grab the listener. A catchy, honest song. Growing up with classics like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holliday, or the haunting melancholy of Joni Mitchell, has indisputably left it's mark on me ... and there's no going back!'

This is why the new EP 'Flow', features timeless songs. A pick of four diverse pop songs from the anticipated LP, with twists of jazz, and echoes of folky-soul to leave you pining for more ...

'Too Wide' would be best described as a 'killer-ballad', full of longing and regret, it's bound to break you heart. In stark contrast, the title track 'Flow', is probably Jemma's only positive comment on the modern romantic relationship, but it still reminisces a certain melancholic need for the ultimate closeness. 'Ruby' is a beautifully written piece for Jemma's niece Ruby, it was originally sent as a birth present, recorded on the day she was born. Now, it can be heard in it's full grandeur, celebrating the wonder of birth, parenthood and life itself. Finally, the up-tempo 'Long time coming', takes on a bluesy turn and shows that not only can Jemma do more than conquer a ballad, she just might not be all sweetness and light!

'It's an exciting time and with the wonderful studio support of Ernst Esser (Red & Blue, Cologne) and an acoustic line-up, I am happy to be able to bring my songwriting back home'

Memorable melodies, warm string arrangements and an indelible vocal performance; all add up to a EP production of good things to come...