10 Foot Tall are talented musicians with quality taste in music and a polished style, writes Heidi Wyithe.

If youre into late nights in smoky bars, where live music is generated this is for you.

Foolish Heart starts off slowly, and is deflating almost dull. But some bars down the line it builds into a repetitive, catchy melody.

Ryezs velvet vocals are accomplished and palatable, more so than say, Heather Smalls but at least the M People front woman has a distinctive sound. What sets Ryez apart from the rest? Her aim seems to be to offer a Skin (Skunk Annansi) vibe a masculine sound alongside soft soul and coarse rock. But the raw edges are not there.

The instrumental canvass behind Ryez reminds me of Rufus, who backed Chaka in the 70s with an onslaught of electric guitar blurting gutsy solos.

But all this is looking to the past. Where is the market for it today? Flying makes an effort to reach a Doors/Hendrix level. But as soon as a climax is expected the whole thing falls back into second gear.

Ryezs voice is almost too good for the confines of the studio. Her range has the earthy qualities of Tracy Chapman or Joan Amatrading. The latter established herself as a musician, instead of conforming to the stereo-typical black, female-artist mould. I can see Ryez doing the same.

To break new ground this lot have to take some risks.

The blues-based centre of the latter part of the CD compliments Ryezs attributes as a songstress, shes not a diva, more like a Nina Simone for 2002.

Her gift needs to be nurtured. Instead of lyrics that plod along, challenging material should stretch her. If I heard 10FT live, I would be full of enthusiasm. A brilliant band in the making.