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Bill Henderson: Beautiful Memory: Bill Henderson Live at the Vic
BySurprisingly, this 2007 concert by Henderson at The Vic in Santa Monica not only marked his 81st birthday, but it was his first recording under his own name in over a quarter-century. Well accompanied by veteran drummer Roy McCurdy, pianist Tateng Katindig and bassist Chris Conner, Henderson sounds like a man decades younger, without the wear and tear of that vocalists of his age normally exhibit, though the experience acquired over time is evident during his performance.
There are numerous highlights throughout this memorable concert. "Never Make Your Move Too Soon" is all but owned by Ernestine Anderson, but Henderson puts his stamp on it, backed by strident piano chords and walking bass. The gospel-inflected take of "You Are My Sunshine" radiates warmth while "That Old Black Magic" is rarely taken at such a deliberate tempo. "Tulip or Turnip" was a jive feature for Ray Nance written by Duke Ellington during World War II; Henderson swings it for all it's worth.
There are some offbeat moments. Henderson's deliberate, ruminative take of "A Sleepin' Bee" adds a soft but superfluous synthesizer line in the background. Elton John's "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word" hardly has the makings of a standard with its weak lyrics, despite Henderson giving it his all. Still, Beautiful Memory, labeled a "limited edition," is an enjoyable listen.
Track Listing
All the Things You Are; Never Make Your Move Too Soon; You Are My Sunshine; Royal Garden Blues: A Sleepin' Bee; The Moon Was Yellow; Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word; The Song is You; That Old Black Magic; Never Kiss and Run; Living Without You; Tulip or Turnip.
Personnel
Bill Henderson
vocalsBill Henderson: vocals; Tateng Katindig: piano, keyboards; Chris Conner: bass; Roy McCurdy: drums.
Album information
Title: Beautiful Memory: Bill Henderson Live at the Vic | Year Released: 2010 | Record Label: Ahuh