Jamie Cullum is either a gambler or knows something we don't.  Most wouldn't dream of risking a student loan on an uncertain investment (other than a degree) - let alone have the sense to - except for Cullum, who used his share to record an album a year ago. 

The result, Pointless Nostaglic, earned him recognition from The Times, The Daily Express, Time Out and respect from the don of all chat show hosts, Michael Parkinson.

The wise investment/big risk paid off.  Cullum signed on the dotted line for a reported £1 million with Universal, Parky asked him back onto his show recently, The Royal Variety Show has given him an invitation to perform and The South Bank Show are currently filming a documentary on Cullum's progress to be aired later this year.  He's also only 24.

Twentysomething, which marks the debut for Cullum on Universal, is a collection of jazz infused into classic and contemporary tunes - some self-penned, a few written by sibling Ben, many of which are covers.  Yeah, that's right - 'jazz'.  Were you fooled into thinking baby boy makes pop?  Well, he is quite the pin-up amongst teenage girls but admittedly, the Converse shoes aren't doing him any favours.

Times have changed, and notably, youth is pushing forward.  Before there was Harry Connick Jr, who barely caused a ripple.  Now the likes of Norah Jones and Michael Bublé are riding the crest of the wave for contemporary jazz and Jamie Cullum looks likely to join them. 

Golden oldies like 'Singin' In The Rain', 'I Get A Kick Out Of You', 'I Could Have Danced All Night' and 'What A Difference A Day Made' have been revamped for a modern feel, accentuating Cullum's rich and distinctive voice, while the autobiographical title track and upcoming single 'All At Sea' give a personal insight about himself.

Original compositions are in the minority, with attention on re-workings like Jimi Hendrix's 'Wind Cries Mary' and Jeff Buckley's 'Lover, You Should Have Come Over' encompassing the finished package.  Is it to appeal to an older generation?  To please jazz enthusiasts?  Or is it just Cullum being a bit rushed off his feet to deliver a collection that will be stuffed down plenty of Christmas stockings?

It's a slow-burner but with so much going for him, I'd say we haven't heard the last of Jamie Cullum - it's just the start.
(3½/5)

Release Date: 20 October 2003

Twentysomething