A classically-trained singer with influences ranging from Mozart to Nirvana, this young Dubliner showcases her not-inconsiderable vocal chops on what is an instantly impressive debut album. Featuring a well-chosen blend of familiar Christmas/Winter themed songs, along with a selection of more contemporary covers, it works far better in reality than might appear on paper.
With sumptuous harmonies and sympathetic arrangements throughout, Bass truly shines vocally, especially on songs such as the Celtic-sounding ‘Suantrai’ and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Pie Jesu’. Her versions of seasonal favourites such as ‘O Holy Night’ and ‘Ave Maria’ and ‘Drummer Boy’ hit the spot (with the latter coming across not unlike the Bowie/Bing Crosby version in the arrangement department.)
More interestingly, she brings a neat classical dimension – no easy task -– to several well known tunes: for example, with just piano and layered voices, her take on Snow Patrol’s ‘Chasing Cars’ (with vocals partly translated into Gaelic) is exquisite, while her approach to Coldplay’s ‘Fix You’ is equally enchanting. And while her “polite” vocal style might not be to everybody’s taste, especially on a challenging classic like Bowie’s ‘Life On Mars’ ,she manages to make it all her own.
While an album of covers makes for the perfect introduction to an artist like Bass, it will be interesting to see what direction she takes on future releases.
KEY TRACK: ‘CHASING CARS’