Press reviews

“Humble and relaxed, she sat amongst hay bales and organza drapes with such poise, as though she were nestled amid silk and velvet surrounds. And just when you thought this stunning Caribbean goddess couldn't get any cooler, she pulled out a ukulele. Hook. Line. Sinker. This show seamlessly mixes original numbers with covers, leaving one with an appreciation for her song-smithery as well as her honeyed vocals. Simone is an intoxicating performer who shines on stage, and she deserves to be seen clearly by all. A wonderful night of Caribbean-style soul and jazz — take my advice and allow yourself to be captivated by Miss Renee Simone.”

“ROAR is a rootsy, smooth collection of soul and R&B from Jamaican-born, Byron Bay-based vocalist Miss Renee Simone. Simone's songs are delivered with a relaxed, back-porch elegance that recalls both classic vocal jazz and the egalitarian vibes of Blue King Brown or Mama Kin. Good vibes x 11.”

“Renee has a relaxed and welcoming persona that immediately sets you at ease. I've never experienced such a well-planned set list. Renee begins with a series of soft Caribbean jazz songs, soothing the audience and making them forget the stresses of their day. With each song the tempo grows until before you know it you're swaying to a lively beat, smiling when Renee smiles, and singing along with the chorus. Though undoubtedly the star, Renee does not dominate the stage. She shares the spotlight with her band mates. Most songs include a solo from either the guitarist or brass player and during these interludes Renee rests back, closes her eyes and appreciates the music. It's wonderful to see a band that obviously enjoys performing together. Too often with popular bands or singers, their onstage chemistry seems strained and interactions perfunctory. Renee's music and enthusiasm is infectious, and will leave you on an emotional high.”

“Captivating in her manner, voice and message… Simone could sing any genre of music and make it her own; her sultry and soulful voice glided around the room settling in for the night on the laps of all the audience members, like a purring pet. Her band were to be commended, with tasteful snare and percussive sounds and beautiful jazz guitar accompanying her; the soloist who pulled out various brass and woodwind instruments and the odd harmonica added just the right amount of colour, and harmonies were musically excellent with brilliant light and shade. Final word: mesmerising.”

“Reggae rhythms, jazz and blues influences are clear, and these can be attributed to her love of the music of great singers of the 1930s and 40s, such as Josephine Baker and Billie Holiday. She is also influenced by the work of many contemporary artists, and injects her music with a good dose of soul. Her backing band had a very good percussionist who kept a Latin beat running through the numbers, as well as a great guitarist and an excellent multi-instrumentalist who can really do wonders with a soprano saxophone. Miss Renee Simone adds further colour to the orchestrations on her ukulele. It is her remarkable voice, though, that captivates the audience, with her unique way of expressing the meaning of each number, and her versatility in embracing a wide range of material. Her voice is a joy to listen to as she turns every number into a piece that is all her own, even standards, and songs from groups like The Red Hot Chili Peppers. Some might say that she greatly improves them, and I would not argue with that.”

“It was a real pleasure to be at Jazz Cafe Camden for the Omar show. Supported by Miss Renee Simone, a singer of high quality, who produced a beautifully crafted set, accompanied by a fine band.”

“A voice like layers of tiramisu topped with smooth chocolate sauce.”

“Reminiscent of an early Sade.”

“A smooth and tasteful blend of styles, like Randy Crawford meets Neneh Cherry.”

“It's just got a beautiful soul and looks great. I could sit and listen to that all night. It's beautiful. I'm first in line to buy the album.”

“A wonderful talent.”

“Miss Renee Simone played our main stage to an adoring crowd.”

“Miss Renee Simone and her band can get any crowd dancing like they never have before.”

“I heard 'ROAR' and was really impressed by the range and quality of the writing, singing and playing. Miss Renee is able to straddle jazzy soul, folk, pop and reggae and make all of the styles her own. A great singer with a very unique style. If honey had a sound it would be the voice of Miss Renee Simone.”

“Renee Simone's effortless vocals were only trumped by her broad smile.”

“It was beautiful. To me it's like a car CD — I'd put you guys on and drive for hours to keep the stress down. It's a calming feeling… beautiful music, and you guys are tight with the vocals. I think you're fantastic. If I was at a record company and you guys wandered in with that vibe and did it that well, I'd just send you down to the recording studio immediately, it's excellent.”