Who is the World's Best 'New' Female Vocalist


It has to be Renee Olstead--she's remarkable, with talents that literally dwarf other female artists. Before you think of who is better, let me explain.
For me, it's about the voice first...I have to love the texture, totally personal here...a love it hate it kind of thing. For example, for many years including this one, I've felt that Karen Carpenter had about the most beautiful voice, I suppose, just in terms of texture, that I'd ever heard. Perfect pitch, (without pitch correction I believe) beautiful pronunciation, diction...all the components for my taste.
What was lacking was that 'style' that special vocalization that some performers, who are musically gifted have...think Clifford Brown's trumpet versus practically everyone else. Chris Botti emulates him, but isn't quite there...excellent but not really a Clifford.
Renee, does things with her voice, a 'cry' in her voice at times, going into her 'head' voice (falsetto in males) with ease...a probably 4 octave range...SHE'S remarkable.
Buy her albums!
Her first album is remarkable, and maybe better, (more a function of what music you prefer, as she matured some in the interim).
As a frequent poster on Audiogon, I think we have a responsibility to one another to make suggestions which have helped us find the 'magic'...this girl has the magic.

Good listening.

Larry
lrsky
Imelda May. Chrck her out on jeff becks rock & roll party for a taste. From dublin.
Anyone visited Renee Olstead, OR any owners of her albums...as sometimes it takes a couple of listens to phrasing and style?

I introduced an old friend to her last night, a conductor, lifetime musician. He was stunned.

Best,
Larry
Adele. Great voice. Very down to earth. I think she pulled off that 'difficult second album' too with '21'. First artist since the Beatles in the 1960's to have two singles and two albums in the UK top five all at the same time. Number 1 in US and Canada also. Hopefully she can go on from here...
Cyclonicman
China Forbes

Have you ever listened to her 2008 album '78?

Listen to that album version of "Eugene" followed by the Pink Martini album of the same name.

I think the collaboration with Pink Martini really brought out the best in China Forbes.