BECCA WILKINS

REVERIE

Lamplight Social Records

Becca Wilkins, vocals/arranger; Oily Chalk, piano/synthesizer; Sam Ingvorsen, bass; Billy Pod, drums.

One of the tests of a great ‘world music’ record is when you don’t speak the language, and you still find yourself drawn to the music. Becca Wilkins and her trio offer an album sung completely in French.  “Reverie” is a deeply personal homage by the French chanson to sing songs that reflect her own wistful memories, daydreams and life experiences.  On Hymne a l’amour, Pt. 1 (Hymn to love) the lyrics are by great vocalist, Edith Piaf.  However, Wilkins only sings a short part of the song, calling it Part 1.

The second track, “Emmenez-Moi” is composed by Charles Aznavour, and Wilkins sings it with much emotion. The title translates to ‘Take Me’ and I feel the pleading in Becca’s vocal delivery. The pianist on “A Bicylette” (Oily Chalk) sets the groove of the song with his piano introduction.  This song is full of motion and movement.  I immediately feel as if I am on a bicycle ride. On a composition called ‘Under the Sky of Paris’  (Sous le Ciel de Paris) was written for a 1951 film of the same title.  I fell in love with Chalk’s piano solo on this arrangement.

The tune, La Bohème is quite dramatic.  So is the famous Django Reinhardt composition, “Nuages” that is performed with acoustic bassist San Ingvorsen leading the way. His introductory bass solo sets the tone. When Wilkins enters, only voice and double bass play against the silence, two stars glowing in a dark sky.

“… I’m always struck by how much of the stories come through to audiences, even those who don’t speak French.  Initially, I handed out translations at gigs, but I noticed people stopped using them.  They were connecting with the music in a way that transcended language. As jazz musicians, we’re used to telling stories without words and this project is a testament to that. I fell in love with the poetry of these songs,” explains Becca Wilkins.

Ms. Wilkins breathes fresh life into a rich, French musical tradition, using a recognizable repertoire. She has lived in Normandy, France and studied both French and music at university. Consequently, this album is an extension of her artistic identity. She is currently based in London, UK. This music releases May 30, 2025.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

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