A performer with soul and funk band Matador! Soul Sounds, Kim Dawson currently teaches at Swallow Hill Music and the University of Colorado, Denver. From the scarcity of information and output available online, one assumes that her foray into solo recording is fairly recent. Her latest single ‘Try’ is an elegantly textured slice of neo-soul, with clear jazz sensibility. Dawson’s vocal throughout is clear and pointed.

‘“Try” is an anthem for those striving to reach their potential. I am very fortunate to have my friend, Wil Blades, on this track. Wil was an important piece of the puzzle, and he plays beautifully on it. The track is rounded out with musicians Paul McDaniel, Brant Williams, Braxton Kahn, Adriene Bible and LaDamion Massey who really help bring this song to life. This is the Kim Dawson sound, and I’m so excited for everyone to hear it.’

‘Does it feel good to hate your own reflection?‘ Dawson asks rhetorically. What begins as tough love makes way for more active encouragement, particularly as she reaches the bridge (‘What you hold within can bring you joy you never know / So stop the show come on let’s go!’) – flowing nicely into an organ solo from Blades.

‘Try’ is out on Color Red founded by Eddie Roberts of The New Mastersounds.

(Image copyright: Color Red)