Jamie Cullum Catching Tales

Now if we could just get this guy the right producer...

Jamie Cullum has a bit of a problem. While incredibly talented and savvy (his appreciation for music of all genres is readily apparent on just about every song he's done), he has got to find a way to drive all of these ideas into a singular focus. This is when the producer steps in, to help Cullum straighten things out, so we don't have to be bombarded with an inconsistent album such as this one. The opening "Get Your Way," produced by Dan The Automator, despite it's overt exaggeration in its approach to big band jazz music, gives Cullum a bit of a swagger very rarely shown on any of his other songs, and it works. So, you're thinking, this is a new direction right? Well, yes and no. All the tracks that immediately follow the opener are exceptionally mellow, and in the case of "London Skies" and the absolutely terrible cover of "I Only Have Eyes For You," also mind-numbingly dull. Sandwiched in between these tracks is "Photograph," hands down one of the best songs, despite the occasional lyrical shortcomings. What makes it work is that it showcases Cullum's great storytelling ability. It's not necessarily pretty-- though his piano playing surely is-- but it is almost always heartfelt and as such, there is a connection that is made that's, in truth, very hard to come by these days. Other solid tracks are the R&B infused "Mind Tricks," which comes complete with obligatory sing along party outro (yes it's kinda cheesy, but it works anyway), the gorgeous cover of "I'm Glad There Is You," and the somewhat funky "Back To The Ground." When Jamie Cullum is good, he's really, really, good, he just can't seem to figure out what he wants to be just yet. If you are looking at this as a Jazz cd, you're almost guaranteed to be sorely disappointed, as I was at first, but when you look at it simply as a pop album, then you'll find yourself enjoying every bit more and more. Cullum's already accomplished when it comes to his songwriting ability, he just needs to hone in on what sounds work best for him.

★★★★