This lively and energetic album is plenty of fun to listen to.
While filled with plenty of nostalgia in terms of the song choices, this is album that has contemporary vibe to it thanks to the arrangements that offer a new perspective on songs such as ‘Pennies From Heaven’ and ‘Ain’t Mishavin”. As a pairing – Jools Holland and Rod Stewart work well together.
Beginning with a gloriously uptempo rendition of ‘Lullaby of Broadway’ which sets the tone for the album: playful and sophisticated with a great arrangement there is more fun to come on the rest of the record.
While the majority of the album really leans into the swing aspect, there are still hints of Stewart’s rock and roll era, when listening to ‘Good Rockin’ Tonight’ or ‘Night Train for example’. As always, his vocals are distinctive and instantly recognisable – he is able to make his own mark on each of these songs.
In turn, Jools Holland and the supporting musicians are equally glorious to listen to – the long sections in songs such as ‘Lullaby of Broadway’ and ‘Sentimental Journey’ allow them to take centre stage ensuring there is a light and breeziness that makes the album a pleasure to listen to.
While on occasions musically it gets a little bit carried away that can make it overwhelming in places, it is still hard to resist the infectious joy that this album brings. Songs such as ‘Oh Marie’ which has a cheekiness to it or a surprising version of ‘Ain’t Misbehavin” that has a flirty quality to it that makes you see it in a different light.
Throughout there is a consistent high energy to it that sweeps the listener along effortlessly – just listen to the renditions of ‘Pennies From Heaven’ and ‘Them There Eyes’ for example – which really highlight just how much fun Holland and Stewart had in putting together this album.
Joyous fun from start to finish, Swing Fever shows just how well Jools Holland and Rod Stewart work together.
By Emma Clarendon
Swing Fever is available to buy now.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐