Victoria Port—Barefoot in the Garden

I do not review much R&B or soul music. I think that is largely because, when I am in the mood for it, I tend to return to the classics, particularly Motown. That said, I have had various dalliances over the years, including being firmly attached to Luther Vandross’ 1986 album "Give Me The Reason" when it was released.

Anyway, I was checking out new Bandcamp releases and came across Victoria’s latest EP, and something clicked.

As "I Won’t Wait" began, my first thoughts were of Amy Winehouse, though Victoria’s voice has a much softer tone, certainly softer than much of Amy’s work. I think I was looking for something to accompany my Sunday morning thoughts and mug of tea, and this fitted the bill perfectly.

"Willow Tree" is built around a familiar drum beat I've heard many, many times, but one I never tire of when the surrounding music, and the vocals in particular, are this strong. Everything sits comfortably in the groove, allowing the track to breathe. There is even an atmospheric trumpet solo that drifts in naturally, reinforcing the chilled, laid back mood and giving the song an added sense of warmth.

There is another great drum beat that opens "What We Become", but here the tone is more sultry, more late night. It feels like a soundtrack for a city that never sleeps, decidedly more London than Ottawa, and I can personally attest to both.

A drumbeat and soulful vocals open "Don’t Let Me Fall", with hints of Soul II Soul coming to mind. This, however, feels far more intimate, where the latter is much more in your face, if that makes sense.

The EP closes with the title track "Bare Foot in the Garden", a song that carries a brightness that might feel more suited to opening the record than closing it. Nevertheless, it is another strong track, and overall this has been a really great EP to spend a Sunday morning with.

To my surprise, this EP gently pulled me away from the familiar comforts of the classics and reminded me that contemporary R&B and soul, when handled with this much care and restraint, can be just as rewarding. There is an ease and confidence running through these songs that never feels forced, each track revealing its charms. The EP may be a brief listen, but it lingers long after it ends, and is one I can easily imagine returning to when the mood calls for something warm, thoughtful, and unhurried.