A native American from Miami, but currently residing in Zurich, Jo Potter has now released her second album ‘Saved’, following up on her debut ‘8 Circles’ from 2003. A collection of 12 songs written by her, and occasionally with collaborators, ‘Saved’ is an impressive sophomore offering. Concentrating on the art of songwriting with catchy melodies and articulate lyrics, her album is an absolute joy to listen to.

Jo has said that one of her influences is Tracy Chapman, and you can certainly hear a touch of Tracy in her voice, as well as the sultry sexiness of a young Sarah McLachlan. But comparisons, if inevitable at this stage of Jo’s career, are somewhat unfair, as she has developed a style of her own. Her voice is her greatest asset. This girl can sing. She really sells a song. The listener feels that she lives and experiences every syllable. There’s an honesty there that is both alluring and infectious. Just listen to her track ‘Something’ to get a flavour of her pleasing and charming style.

The music is probably best described as jazzy, poppy Adult Rock – not dissimilar from a Norah Jones with a dash of Sheryl Crow thrown in for good measure. The band she has assembled plays beautifully and plays in way that perfectly complements her songs and words. The production is flawless, always remembering that what we want to hear is the words and music and not the technical wizardry of those pushing the buttons. Stand out tracks for this writer are the album opener ‘Saved’, the gently rocking ‘Give It To Me’ and the acoustic version of ‘So Beautiful’ that closes the album.

This is a substantial offering from Jo Potter which should see her reputation enhanced and her career move up to the next level. If you like good songs sung and played well then you should check out this album, you won’t be disappointed.

Peter ‘taB’ Walker

www.jopotter.com