(Used) BASIA cd collection London Warsaw New York The Sweetest Illusion (Electronic, Jazz, Synth-pop)

Basia is a Polish singer-songwriter known for combining jazz-pop, soul, Latin rhythms and sophisticated adult contemporary production. She first gained international attention as a member of Matt Bianco before beginning a successful solo career with producer and keyboardist Danny White.

Her music is polished but never passive, driven by intricate rhythms, bright arrangements and her distinctive multi-layered vocals. These three CDs include two editions of her bestselling second album and a Japanese pressing of its more mature follow-up.

1. London Warsaw New York

Released in 1990, London Warsaw New York developed the jazz-pop and Latin influences introduced on Basia’s debut, Time and Tide.

“Cruising for Bruising” became the album’s defining hit, combining a memorable chorus with Brazilian-influenced rhythms. “Baby You’re Mine,” “Best Friends” and “Ordinary People” maintain its bright energy, while “Brave New Hope” and “Take Him Back Rachel” provide more emotional moments.

Basia also delivers an elegant version of “Until You Come Back to Me,” written by Stevie Wonder, Clarence Paul and Morris Broadnax. “Copernicus” reflects her Polish heritage within an upbeat, rhythmically adventurous arrangement.

The best starting point for anyone discovering Basia.

2. London Warsaw New York (Japan Press with OBI)

This Japanese pressing presents the same successful second album in a more collectible regional edition.

The ten-song programme moves effortlessly between jazz-pop, samba, soul and sophisticated balladry. Danny White’s detailed keyboards and arrangements provide the ideal setting for Basia’s agile voice, particularly on “Reward,” “Not an Angel” and “Brave New Hope.”

Musically, it is an excellent album in any format. For collectors of Japanese CDs, the retained OBI and Japanese presentation make this the more desirable copy.

3. The Sweetest Illusion (Japan Press with OBI)

Released in 1994, The Sweetest Illusion is warmer, richer and more reflective than London Warsaw New York. The arrangements use a broader range of live instrumentation while retaining Basia and Danny White’s rhythmic sophistication.

“Drunk on Love” opens with energetic jazz-dance momentum, while “Third Time Lucky” and “Yearning” demonstrate Basia’s gift for melodic adult pop. “An Olive Tree,” “More Fire Than Flame” and the title track introduce Latin, jazz and soul colours.

“She Deserves It,” written around Rachel’s wedding, has a personal celebratory quality, while “The Prayer of a Happy Housewife” closes the album with wit and theatrical character.

An overlooked sophisti-pop album and an attractive Japanese pressing with its original OBI.