Claire Martin - A Modern Art - The Observer

Every Claire Martin album is different from the one before, largely because of her bold and enterprising approach to repertoire. These 14 numbers range from a Rodgers and Hart classic to [a] piece by Esbjörn Svensson, and most of them manage to avoid the big weakness of contemporary songs - too many words, not enough tune. The arrangements are full of little surprises too. Her warm, natural style is complemented by the cream of today's British jazz scene. Gareth Williams is the best possible pianist for the job, while saxophonist Nigel Hitchcock and trombonist Mark Nightingale fill out the picture with vivid solos.