Album: Laura Nyo, More Than A New Discovery, (Rev-Ola)

Today’s young female singer-songwriters will have to go some to equal the precocious talent of Laura Nyro on this debut album, recorded in 1965 when she was still just 19.

Nyro’s reputation, and financial security, would be secured through hit versions (by Barbra Streisand, The Fifth Dimension and Blood, Sweat & Tears, respectively) of “Stoney End”, “Wedding Bell Blues” and “And When I Die”, all included here.

However, she regarded some of Herb Bernstein’s arrangements as underplaying the songs’ potential. In particular, she disowned this version of “Wedding Bell Blues”.

But her handsome contralto conveys unalloyed joy. Likewise, her “Stoney End” has an exuberant charm, while “And When I Die” has an unusual blend of jazz and country flavours.

To order any CD previewed here, call the Independent Music Service on 01634 832789.