Norah Jones, Carry On | Track Review 🎵

After a three-year hiatus, Norah Jones returns with jazzy-country song  “Carry On,” the first single from forthcoming album, ‘Day Breaks’.  

It has been three years since Norah Jones released an album (Foreverly in 2013).  It has been four years since Jones released a solo album (Little Broken Hearts, 2012).  Going back further, it has been 14 years since Jones released her breakthrough, debut Come Away With Me.  Now, Jones prepares to release her seventh album, Day Break. “Carry On” serves as the promo single for Day Breaks.

“Carry On” is lazy, chocked-full of the old school feel. Because of these characteristics, it sounds like signature Norah Jones. Jones’ previous album, Broken Hearts didn’t embrace her jazz-country vibes as much. “Carry On,” hence, marks a return to form. 

Jones’ vocals are relaxed; she never over- nor under-sings.  The production surrounding her distinct pipes is exceptional. Piano, organ, upright bass, and a subtle drum groove go a long way. As sound as “Carry On” is, it doesn’t necessarily pack a mighty punch. It’s respectable, but not Grammy-winning per se.

Final Thoughts

All in all, “Carry On” is enjoyable and respectable.  Norah Jones seems to be revisiting her roots – think Come Away With Me. Soulful throughout, nothing groundbreaking occurs, but flexes nonetheless.

Norah Jones • Day Breaks • Blue Note • Release: 10.07.16

Photo Credit: Blue Note