American duo HEAVy punctuate the over-crowded, over-pretentious pop market with their latest offering, Jazz Money.

Hailing from Queens, NY, Nicky Guiland (vocals) and Casey Benjamin (piano/sax) hooked up at the prestigious La Guardia performing arts school and HEAVy was born out of a mutual appreciation for soulful music in 2001.

Jazz Money is a sparky synthesis of soul, hip-hop, pop and rock mixed with a little 80s nostalgia. HEAVy’s sound is distinctively influenced by such musical impresarios as N*E*R*D, Herbie Hancock and Rotary Connection. Nicky’s powerful vocals are sexy, smooth and dirtier than Beyonce’s hot pants after a ten-hour booty-grinding session; at times the strength of her voice surpasses the frequently repetitive tracks (‘Countdown’).

This dynamic duo is a cool alternative to the Gwen Stefani and Black Eyed Peas of this world, but Jazz Money isn’t quite punchy enough to carve a new niche. Unpretentious, vibrant and timely, Jazz Money is sassy, but lacking in depth. (Holly Wicks)