Album Review of
Everybody Knows

Written by Joe Ross
January 9, 2021 - 2:05am EST
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Everybody Knows is a jazz-flavored soul album that also makes a beautiful thematic statement that the world needs more hope, compassion and care. Brianna Thomas’ powerful style of vocalizing is characterized by confident, articulate and intricate jazz phrasing. That allows her to cover many musical moods from light jazz to funky blues, always with a copious amount of emotional electricity. The album’s opening groove on “Since I Fell For You” juxtaposes nicely with the set’s relaxed bookend, “The More I See You.” Supported by a top-flight instrumental cast with guitar, piano, bass, drums and percussion, Thomas’ sophomore album project makes a complete jazz statement. It has fresh, well-sung renditions of classics like “It Had To Be You” and “Ain’t Got Nothing But The Blues” and “It’s A Sin To Tell A Lie,” as well as enchanting material like her own self-penned “How Much Forgiveness” and Lil Johnson’s “My Stove’s In Good Condition.” On numbers like her re-make of “Don’t Let The Sun Catch You Crying” and “Mississippi Goddam,” Brianna Thomas’ inner fire shows through as the lyrics she sings stem from a conviction of the soul. (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)