Polish-native Basia Tzetrzelewska was first introduced to the group Matt Bianco as a singer. She sang the hits “Get Out of Your Lazy Bed,” and “More Than What I Can Bear,” and then left for Time and Tide, Danny White’s main composer. Although the album was a success in Japan and Europe, it took some brave D.J.s for the album to be imported to America. Time and Tide released the album in the USA and there were three Adult Contemporary songs (“Promises”, “New Day For You”, and “Time and Tide”. Basia was unique and appealed to a broad audience. After the release of London Warsaw New York, her second consecutive number-one Billboard Contemporary Jazz album, Basia’s versatility was recognized. It topped the chart for the majority of 1990. The breakout hit single “Cruising For Bruising” led to a second tour that saw sold-out marquees and a second platinum album. 1994’s The Sweetest Illusion provided a clearer picture of the artists. It featured a full band and a richer musical texture. Their appeal was not limited to one genre. “Drunk On Love”, a Billboard Club Play #1 hit, and The Sweetest Illusion topped the pop album charts. The result was a world tour that culminated in a two week run on Broadway. This performance was recorded for the live album Basia On Broadway. Danny and Mark Reilly, guitarist/vocalist, brought Basia back to the party to recast their early sound in the Matt Bianco album Matt’s Mood (2004). They combined swing, Latin, pop, lounge, and spy-soundtrack sounds to great success. When they went on tour, the enthusiastic response was overwhelming from loyal fans who were thrilled to see Basia again in action. It’s That Girl again was born from the positive reaction. The songs on It’s That Girl Again reprise Basia’s global pop sound, fusing stick-in-your-head-for-days melodies with complex arrangements that don’t overshadow the heartfelt lyrics or stunning instrumentation. Every song is dedicated to someone in Basia’s life. However, her stories can be interpreted as a tribute to characters that many people can relate to. The music is inventive and inspiring, taking you to unexpected places. With its irresistible melody and romantic lyrics, “If Not Now Then What” is the perfect introduction to the Basia sound. “A Gift”, a candid confession, is set to an acoustic guitar melody. “Someone for Everyone” features Danny pulling out all the stops, with piano, gospel-tinted organ, and keyboard. “Everybody’s on the Move” has a rock-oriented feel, while “There’s A Tear”, a simple ballad that recalls Stevie Wonder’s 80s love songs, is upbeat and energetic. The intense “Love Lies Bleeding”, which features a sharp tango, and the beautiful “I Must”, where a measured verse explodes into a chorus that resembles a Bond movie chase scene, are two examples of this intensity. “Blame It on The Summer” is a great warm-weather track. The multilayered vocals of the “Two Islands”, however, give way to an island vibe that counters the touching subject matter. The joyous “Winners”, which is lighthearted, brings back memories of Carnaval’s joy. “They Know Nothing About Us” showcases Basia’s lyrical power. “Amelki Smiech”, a celebration of new life, features a lively party scene and buoyant hearts that defy language. This leads nicely to the song’s title. A tight group of musicians join Basia and Danny, including guitarist Peter White, drummer Marc Parnell, and trumpeter Kevin Robinson (Simply Red and Incognito). It’s That Girl Again is a refreshing reminder of what it means to hear real, honest singing again in an age of compressed and processed vocals. The album is great from the first chord of the guitar to the last shout from the crowd. It’s a solid showing by an established artist who has remained true to the present. People who are tired of the current state in pop music want something new and authentic. Just in time, Basia and It’s That Girl again. From www.basiasongs.com
