I think it’s possible that this CD may be a bit like a Buster Keaton silent film. Funny, engaging, fast paced and oh so very well constructed.
McLean may turn out to be the Bette Midler of the Girls Gone Wild generation; she knows her music as well as she knows what she'd like to be doing, and that's very well indeed.
"If You're A Wild Girl Say Aye" by Larkin McLean treats you to a voice that's incredible. Like a runaway train. I go crazy every time I play it. Check it out. You'll feel the same.
The entire album sounds like it arrived in a time-capsule meant to remind us of frothy singers like Eydie Gormé or Doris Day. Live musicians, spunky gal thrush out in front — all that's missing is an old-school variety show for McLean to appear on! Dean Martin, where have ye gone??
A talented chanteuse who is arriving in time to freshen up a wilting musical spectrum.
Gram: Cool jazz-heavy album that ably creates the feel of a Los Angeles summertime affair.
Chris: A Crayon-rubbing of good lounge jazz. Cartoon torch songs describing its own self.
Bernie: A 1960's James Bond jazzy stroll.
Pete: Not much I like better than sexy, half-naked, smoky-voiced beauties - even with the jazz.
There is a definite theatrical aspect to this music. I feel like it is something I want to see performed live in a dark club with a martini in front of me. The songs range from peppy silly to sevy and sultry, but all in the same style. McLean's voice is perfect for this genre. It's lovely.
Larkin McLean sounds as she was just pulled from the set of Chicago. Yet, to label her as a lounge lizard would be shameful. Her raspy, sweet voice is easy to listen to, while her lyrics are a surprise.
In her aptly named CD X-Rated Musical, Larkin serves up a light-hearted scoop of lust, Los Angeles style. Her songs (written together with producer/arranger Kenny Lyon) drip with bourbon and sweat, with the musky scent of sex, cigarettes and satin lingering in the air. But, while Larkin may be laughing her way to her next tease or tango, she leaves in her wake a line of conquests, jealous women and heartbroken lovers.
OK, so maybe Larkin in real life is shy, demure and virginal, but her music suggests otherwise. Her album offers 10 sultry songs of knowing jazz layered with self-confident pop, with suggestive titles such as "Devil Tuesday," "Don't Wake Up," "I Get to Be Me" and "Nobody Gets Over Ava." And she sings them in a way that suggests that one lucky listener (or several, if she's in the right mood) might get to know just what she's talking about, if he listens often and eagerly.
Oh sure, there's love and romance between the lines, but it's all wrapped up in translucent layers of seduction. And Larkin has a laugh in her voice all the way, just so listeners can be sure that she won't be the one walking away in the morning with a tear in her eye.
X-Rated Musical is a collection of flirty jazz that will leave you wanting more. Trust me, you can't bring her home with you, at least not to keep -- but her CD will come to stay.
Larkin McLean continues to AMAZE with her latest effort, X-Rated Musical. Larkin's song writing talent combined with her sultry, enveloping voice makes this cd a must have in every collection. Don't delay. You won't be disappointed!
Hot and sultry vocals against a bossa nova and jazz background tell the age old story about lust and love and sex and everything between. Sensuous lyrics that are told with breathy and wispy vocals will titillate your inner sensuality. Soulful jazz blues that are fit for lounges or hipster living rooms. And despite the title this isn’t a vulgar album whatsoever—unless you’re too much of a prude to a beautiful lady in her underwear. I like the Tahitian influences that popped up on a couple of the tracks.
Sure, there are mentions of love and sex, but they're really done with a bit of a wink and a smile, as compared with being sexy, steamy, sultry songs themselves. Larkin's voice is very pleasant and full of whimsy, and the tunes are produced in a very simple way.
Larkin McLean has produced a sparkler of a debut album, X-rated Musical. McLean has written a batch of songs that speak of love, lust, relationships and flat out sex in a provacative, no nonsense language that is a refreshing change from the dumbed down sex talk gumming up the pop charts these days. Larkin McLean's talent is fully realized on X-rated Musical and I only hope there's more where this came from.
