May 2000

Emme Kemp
Someone to Sing To
Grace

By Geraldine Wyckoff

Pianist/vocalist Emme Kemp's theatrical background is definitely in evidence on this veteran performer's debut album. Kemp has the lungs to belt out a song, but the power required for theatrical productions doesn't always translate well to recording. As evidenced by her delivery on tunes like "C.C. Rider," subtlety isn't close at hand in Kemp's bag. As many artists do on their first outings, Kemp runs through a gamut of styles, moving from gospel to spoken word and beyond, but the album suffers from inferior production. I have the feeling that Emme Kemp is a much better artist than is heard on this recording and could swing and boogie-woogie all night long.