Way back in the mists of time, when Suitcase Orchestra first crawled, blinking in the light,  from the primordial swamps, chamber pop maestro Andrew Morgan recommended we check out Julie London. Well, we knew all about the delights of ‘Cry Me A River’ and sadly, Julie is no longer with us so we’ve made it our business to find a more than suitable replacement.

Described by someone at Radio 2 as a ‘real old school beauty’, Louise Hull does indeed have more than a hint of days gone by about her with her 1950’s film star looks and her rich, dark voice which recalls the aforementioned Miss London and a whole host of other female jazzers. She looks and sounds as if she should have a cigarette perched delicately in a cigarette holder coiling wisps of smoke around her face as she sings.

But, for all of the jazz imagery and vocals, her music has a more folky feel with picked guitar, some soft strings and a light dusting of xylophone. It’s the sort of thing Jools Holland might well have had on Later had he not lost his way.

Having started out in a four piece a cappella group and a folk duo, Louise started her solo career with an ambitious solo tour of America. Since then she has supported Martha Wainwright and Alessi’s Ark and recorded an album with Roxy Music producer John Anthony. She is currently working on an E.P. which should see daylight soon.

In the meantime, enjoy a slow waltz with someone special to this offering or check out Louise’s MySpace here.

Christopher-and-I -  click to listen