The Peacocks is the 3-song EP from Winnipeg jazz artist Sophie Berkal-Sarbit. She describes her musical beginning on her website: “Apparently, in utero, I would kick and stop in synch with whatever music [my parents] were listening to.” Having grown a liking and talent to music before even being born, it’s no surprise to know that Sophie was still only a teenager when she recorded and released this EP.

Just from listening to her songs, though, you would never guess that the artist you’re listening to is still in those years of essays, gym class and high school cafeterias. While most girls in high school are running out to buy the next Pussycat Dolls album, Sophie would rather be involved in musical theatre or taking in the bewitching and soulful music of Ella Fitzgerald.

The Peacocks manages to give its listeners a good glimpse into what this young girl can do. The strength of her voice far exceeds her age and so do her lyrics. On the solemn title track Sophie sings, “A vision, a timeless place, another way of living / you moved in, so close I really thought that you were giving / I allowed myself a moment / to believe that you could need me / to reflect upon what could have been.” Her voice moves skilfully through every swelling crescendo through to every hushed note with a maturity that can’t be taught.

Even considering her talent, though, this release seems incomplete, which is understandable considering it only houses three songs. But those three are songs that alone may be great to listen to, but don’t seem to work together to create a cohesive release. But then again, this is just her EP. Even as I write this she has her new album, Gypsy In My Soul, out on the market and it’s giving her some well-deserved recognition.

Sophie has managed to leave her mark on the Canadian jazz scene playing festivals in Winnipeg and Toronto and being featured on CBC radio, Jazz FM and other radio stations across Canada.



TRACKLISTING

Love For Sale

Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise

The Peacocks