The core of
the Beauty Room is
Kirk Degiorgio (producer, keyboards, vocals) and
Jinadu (lead vocals, keyboards). Though the group didn't make its recorded debut until late 2005, with a low-key 10" single on the New Religion label,
Degiorgio and
Jinadu first collaborated four years prior, when the latter provided vocals on the former's
21st Century Soul album. For
Degiorgio, an early champion of Detroit techno -- and, more importantly, a pioneering and prolific producer in his own right --
the Beauty Room represents a sharp turn away from 15-plus years of productions, a bold acknowledgment of his interests in the likes of
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young,
Joni Mitchell,
Terry Callier,
Jon Lucien, and
Steely Dan.
Jinadu, a distinctive vocalist, has made a couple solo singles (both for Bitches Brew), in addition to guest vocals on tracks by a handful of other producers (
Jimpster,
Zoltar,
Si Begg,
Tidal). Aided by a host of associates -- including guitarist and longtime
Degiorgio peer
Ian O'Brien, keyboardist
Tom O'Grady, drummer
Chris Whitten, and the Heritage Orchestra -- the duo put together a self-titled album, released in September 2006 through Peacefrog. The album also featured an arrangement from
Eumir Deodato, whose work for the CTI label (in particular) has significantly affected
Degiorgio. ~ Andy Kellman, All Music Guide