'A musical adventure', according to Ntjam Rosie's website referring to the repertoire of the African-rooted Dutch. While she was still well on her way (read: the highway) towards her destination with her debut Atouba (2008), the Rotterdam girl seemed to be where she wanted to be with the follow-up album Elle (2010). Her nomination for the Edison Jazzism Audience Award in 2011 seems to confirm this
… in any case. New acquisition At The Back Of Beyond tells us something else, namely that Rosie, once at her destination, decided to hit the road again and this time she sets off, with her vehicle in free, on deserted dirt roads, where she especially seems to encounter himself. Almost independently, the musician provided this intimate, sincere and especially mature sounding record. We hear her unpredictable jazzy vocals over subdued, soulful productions, with very tasteful, subtle nods to pop rock (Love Is Calling) and gospel (Made), but the absolute attractions are the soul ballads, Secret Waters in particular. Definitely not a quick bite, but a nice listening experience for connoisseurs and enthusiasts. (GL)more
