Verve

Nellie McKay may have been born 20 years too late. If you’re a fan of Woody Allen’s films from the ‘90s – think Husbands and Wives – you’ll understand. McKay’s put together a fun, funky, pop album that’s sophisticated but not highbrow and deftly mixes musical styles. Contrast two breakup songs – “Portal,” full of soft percussion enveloped in a flowing, dreamy melody versus the straightforward “No Equality,” with its horns and keyboards that hint at Motown – to understand her range. Then there’s “Adios,” that beautifully melds plaintive lyrics with mandolin straight from Nashville and the ‘20s style “Bluebird,” which would sound right at home in New Orleans.