Neneh Cherry - The Cherry Thing (LP)

"The Cherry Thing" is a captivating collaboration between the iconic vocalist Neneh Cherry and the Swedish free jazz trio The Thing, consisting of Mats Gustafsson on saxophone, Ingebrigt Håker Flaten on bass, and Paal Nilssen-Love on drums. Released on June 18, 2012, under the label Smalltown Supersound, this album is a dynamic fusion of avant-pop and free jazz, showcasing the unique chemistry between Cherry and The Thing.

The album features eight tracks, including covers of songs by artists like Suicide, The Ronettes, and The Not Sensibles, as well as two original compositions by Neneh Cherry. The eclectic tracklist offers a diverse range of styles, from the punchy, punk-infused "Cashback" to the dreamy, atmospheric "Dream Baby Dream," and the raw, energetic "Too Tough to Die." The album's duration is a concise 51 minutes, making it a tight and engaging listen from start to finish.

What sets "The Cherry Thing" apart is its spontaneity and authenticity. The album is the result of a four-day jam session, capturing the raw and unfiltered energy of the collaboration. Neneh Cherry's distinctive voice and poetic lyrics blend seamlessly with The Thing's powerful and improvisational jazz sound, creating a unique and exhilarating musical experience. Whether you're a fan of jazz, punk, or avant-garde music, "The Cherry Thing" offers something fresh and exciting, showcasing the boundless creativity of Neneh Cherry and The Thing.