Hilary James invites you to soar with her enchanting smooth jazz album, "Up In A Big Balloon." Released on January 1, 2000, under Acoustics Records, this captivating collection of 15 tracks offers a delightful blend of whimsical sketches and sultry jazz melodies. With a runtime of 41 minutes, the album is a delightful journey through James' imaginative world, where pink flying elephants and fat flamingoes take flight alongside smooth jazz rhythms.
The album opens with the playful "I Love All The Fruit," setting the tone for the whimsical journey ahead. James' smooth vocals and clever lyrics create a sense of joy and wonder that permeates the entire album. The sketches, such as "Sketch - pink flying elephants" and "Sketch: Simon sees a dodo," add a touch of humor and charm, showcasing James' versatility as an artist.
Musically, the album is a treat for smooth jazz enthusiasts. Tracks like "A Flock Of Fat Flamingoes" and "The Slippery Slimy Trout" showcase James' ability to craft catchy, memorable melodies that will have you humming along. The album also features a number of standout instrumentals, including "The Farmyard Tango" and "Hoots And Whistles," which highlight James' impressive musicality and the talented musicians who join her on this journey.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Buffalo Girls," a lively, upbeat number that showcases James' vocal range and the band's tight musicianship. The album also features a number of traditional folk tunes, such as "Old Dan Tucker's Tune" and "Old Dan Tucker's Song," which James reimagines with a smooth jazz twist.
Throughout the album, James' playful lyrics and smooth vocals are backed by a talented band, featuring some of the finest musicians in the smooth jazz genre. The result is a collection of tracks that are as musically sophisticated as they are delightfully whimsical.
"Up In A Big Balloon" is a testament to Hilary James' unique talent and her ability to blend humor, charm, and smooth jazz into a cohesive, captivating whole. Whether you're a longtime fan of smooth jazz or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and enchant. So, grab a balloon and join Hilary James on this enchanting journey through her imaginative world.
