Buzzin Pop Music

Bridgette Amofah- What It Takes – single review and tour details

Bridgette Amofah’s new single ‘What It Takes’ is a sunny pop record with some 60s soul. With a voice that sounds soulful without sounding Americanised, and backing music that sounds retro without sounding corny, Bridgette Amofah backs up the Times’ prediction that she is one to watch (even if they were slightly optimistic in saying that for 2008). Her debut album is expected to follow in 2009.

‘What It Takes’ is produced by The Rural (of Jamie T/Gorillaz fame) and she is currently working with Basement Jaxx, Sebastien Tellier, and Dan Carey (Franz Ferdinand/Kylie producer).

The jangly drums and tambourines, reminiscent of Amy Winehouse’s ‘You Know That I’m No Good’ and the reverb-laden, clean guitars create the perfect backing for Amofah’s pop-soul crossover, honeyed vocals.

‘What It Takes’ is the sort of song you would expect to hear over the opening credits of a Bond film: a sexy, lovelorn, distant tune. The theme of the song is compromise in relationships:

“If you give him what he wants, he will give you give you what you need”.

Unlikely to be winning plaudits among feminists, perhaps, but it makes for a nicely simple love song all the same.

Bridgette Amofah’s influences include classic French artists like Serge Gainsbourg and Edith Piaf, along with stars like Burt Bacharach and even more contemporary figures like Feist. She fits perfectly into the modern new soul-influenced British pop genre (I’m thinking of Winehouse, Duffy, Adele and the likes), and continues the pleasing trend of authentic, tuneful, catchy, sunny… good pop songs. Don’t be surprised if you see her making waves next year.

Visit Bridgette Amofah’s MySpace and buy ‘What It Takes‘, out now. She’ll also be touring in 2009:

Friday 19th December – London Portobello WInterfest
Wednesday 21st January 2009 – London Monto Water Rats
Wednesday 18th February 2009 – Bristol Academy (supporting Candu Staton)
Friday 20th February 2009 – Liverpool Philharmonic Hall (supporting Candi Staton)
Saturday 21st February 2009 – Birmingham Town Hall (Supporting Candi Staton)
Tuesday 24th February 2009 – London Shepherds Bush Empire (supporting Candi Staton)
Wednesday 25th February 2009 – Hove The Old Market (Supporting Candi Staton)
Thursday 26th February 2009 – London Book Slam @ Neighbourhood
Wednesday 4th March 2009 – Exeter Vibraphonic Festival