Energised by the dynamos of R&B past, Laura B is next in line
W
e’ve long been fans of sensational R&B vocalist Laura B, with her most recent album
Just
A
Little
Love
among our favourite albums of 2021. Inspired by iconic female performers including Ruth Brown, Big Maybelle, LaVern Baker and the estimable Etta James, Laura has thrilled crowds at major events over the years including the Breda Jazz Festival in Holland, the Moondogs and Swing Of The Beach events in Italy, as well as homegrown mainstays such as the Rhythm Riot and Hemsby. Laura’s also been a regular with Italian outfit The Goodfellas/Benny &
The Cats as well as the 18-piece Abbey Town Orchestra. Here, she tells us of her formative influences, serving up 10 powerful, emotive cuts that helped mould her own vocal style.