Lorna Reid’s "I Will Tell Your Story": A Jazz Odyssey You Can’t Ignore

March 06, 2025

Lorna Reid’s "I Will Tell Your Story": A Jazz Odyssey You Can’t Ignore

Lorna Reid isn’t just singing jazz—she lives it. With the release of her latest album, I Will Tell Your Story, on February 20th, the Scottish singer-songwriter proves why she's been nicknamed "Scotland's Norah Jones." The album's smooth lead single, also titled I Will Tell Your Story, is a pouty, chic jazz piece that feels like it's been pulled straight from a smoky cabaret club but polished by the sheen of modern production. With imposing horns, warm vocal harmonies from Louise Clare Marshall, and a groove that exudes retro charm, Lorna walks a fine line between old and new.

This 11-track album is an amazing musical experience through jazz, blues, and soul, bringing together Lorna’s warm vocals with an impressive lineup of the finest musicians around. From Konrad Wiszniewski with his rich saxophone soloing to Euan Stevenson with his sophisticated piano work, every note is carefully crafted, but it never feels too much. And, of course, there's Boo Hewerdine, the producer, English singer-songwriter and mentor, who is also the sonic architect of the album.

Lorna’s storytelling is central to this album, be it telling about love and sorrow. The emotional depth in I Will Tell Your Story is undeniable but it never wallows in maudlin sentiment. Instead, it dances, sways, and, at times, winks at the listener with grace. Tunes like Sweet Baby Blues, the album’s first single, illustrate how Lorna can easily integrate classic jazz textures with contemporary sensibilities, a marriage that has made her music attractive to both purists and new-schoolers.

For those who cannot wait to see Lorna Reid bring this magic to the stage, her upcoming live shows—from intimate jazz clubs to large festival stages—are not to be missed. Whether she is playing at Linlithgow Jazz Club in March or lighting up the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August, one thing is clear: Lorna Reid is not just telling tales—she's damn well ensuring you feel every note of them.