Nikka Costa’s 2001 single ‘Like A Feather’ was one of the year’s best – a sassy, funky slice of minimalist pop that provided its creator with a deserved worldwide smash.
Costa’s pedigree is formidable: her father is the late, legendary producer Don Costa, and she is the goddaughter of Frank Sinatra. In the album’s sleevenotes, she also thanks her ‘mentor,’ Prince, for his guidance.
Costa does not have to look far for musical inspiration but, unfortunately, she has begun to search for assistance in the wrong places.
Also thanked in the sleeve notes, for “the stinkiest groove that ever whooped my ass”, is one Lenny Kravitz: an artist synonymous with uninspired mediocrity.
Kravitz is only credited on three tracks, but his influence dominates long stretches of Canteverdidnothin’.
Costa has appropriated his love of workmanlike funk-rock and nasty vocal histrionics, almost entirely abandoning the lightness of touch that made ‘Like A Feather’ such a treat.
It’s a crying shame, as Costa’s voice can still be an impressive instrument: at its best, sounding simultaneously flirtatious and authoritative.
The final three tracks demonstrate what a good album Canteverdidnothin’ could have been.
‘Hey Love’ is a touching romantic ballad: downbeat and melodic, with Costa’s vocals remaining mercifully restrained throughout. ‘Fatherless Child’ (a tribute to her late father) is a low-key delight, all hushed vocal and gorgeous melotron flourishes.
Hidden track ‘Sugar In My Bowl’ is a pretty acoustic-jazz number, again demonstrating that Costa is at her best when she keeps things simple.
With one classic single in the bag, and a range of great musical influences to draw upon, Nikka Costa could be a star. Let’s hope Canteverdidnothin’ is merely a misstep on the path to excellence.