Tina Harrod has until now primarily been known as the other singer in Jackie Orszaczky's band, rather than as a leader in her own right. That has now changed, with the long-awaited release of her brilliant debut album, Shacked Up In Paradise. Conceived, laid and hatched in Sydney, New Orleans and New York, it has been a massive labour of love, and well worth the wait. The songs are collaborations between Harrod and the likes of Orszaczky, Aron Ottignon and Stuart Hunter. To these Harrod brings the blue-flame intensity of her singing. It is a dark-hued, womanly voice; assured in pitch and as powerful as a train when called upon, it also has little chinks of vulnerability, so one feels wooed by it, rather than merely being bullied into admiration. Move over Renee Geyer, the time has come to share your Queen-of-Soul throne. “In front is Australia’s youthful answer to Aretha Franklin. New Zealand born Tina Harrod has one of these gorgeous vocal instruments, which just oozes soul, sex and sensuality.” [Sydney Morning Herald, Bruce Elder]