Dark Dear Heart

Showcasing Cole in her most innovative and evocative setting yet, Dark Dear Heart promises to take her way beyond her rabid following. Leaving behind most of the jazz trappings that graced her earlier efforts, Holly moves squarely into a unique pop region which she will undoubtedly claim as her own. Produced by Larry Klein (Joni Mitchell, Shawn Colvin), music here ranges from breezy to unforgettable. 1st AAA single/video: A reworking of the Fab Four’s “I’ve Just Seen a Face.”Instead of opting for the full-on pop diva route, Cole travels a far more interesting path towards the mainstream that picks up on the vapor trails of “I Can See Clearly Now” and her album of Waits covers. “I’ve Just Seen a Face” retains echoes of its signature melody, but is otherwise a smart reinvention, and Sheryl Crow’s “You Want More” or the slinky Aaron Davis cowrite “Timbuktu” make fine follow-ups. Larry Klein’s spartan production shines in particular on the title track. –Jeff Bateman

• Blue Note Records