Home » Jazz Articles » Album Review » Jeff Baker: Monologue

138

Jeff Baker: Monologue

By

Sign in to view read count
Jeff Baker: Monologue
Monologue is not the most appropriate title for vocalist Jeff Baker's followup to Baker Sings Chet. To his credit, Baker cedes plenty of the spotlight to his band. The result is far more conversational than its title would lead one to believe.

Singers seem to fall into one of two categories. The first is the Tony Bennett/Nat King Cole type, acting as a warm and trusted friend you can turn to when you are down and out. The second is the Frank Sinatra/Billie Holiday variety, calling you at 3 am when they find themselves down and out. Of the two, Baker easily falls into the former category. His vocals convey compassion and sincerity. He is unfailingly smooth and assured.

The take of the perennial "A Nightingale Sang In Berkley Square is particularly representative of Baker's personable talents. His vocals are invitingly soft and gentle. At the same time, there is room for a smooth alto saxophone solo by Brent Jensen that glows with the same warmth as the vocals. Elsewhere, bassist Doug Miller contributes a fine solo on a solidly melodic version of "I Didn't Know What Time It Was. Credit must also be given for taking on material outside of the established jazz canon with an elegant reading of "The Promise written by Tracy Chapman.

Monologue is an exceedingly pleasant album. It earns admiration in a way that can never be described as showy. Gentleness and subtlety are the hallmarks of the recording and the reasons why it is so enjoyable.

Track Listing

That Old Feeling, Answer Me, You Don't Know What Love Is, A Nightingale Sang in Berkley Square, I Didn't Know What Time It Was, You Are Too Beautiful, the More I See You, Come Ready, It's Always You, Midnight Blue, The Promise, Beautiful Friendship

Personnel

Jeff Baker
vocals

Jeff Baker--vocals; Bill Anschell--piano; John Bishop--drums; Brent Jensen--alto and soprano saxophones; David Sabee--cello

Album information

Title: Monologue | Year Released: 2005 | Record Label: OA2 Records

Comments

Tags


For the Love of Jazz
Get the Jazz Near You newsletter All About Jazz has been a pillar of jazz since 1995, championing it as an art form and, more importantly, supporting the musicians who create it. Our enduring commitment has made "AAJ" one of the most culturally important websites of its kind, read by hundreds of thousands of fans, musicians and industry figures every month.

You Can Help
To expand our coverage even further and develop new means to foster jazz discovery and connectivity we need your help. You can become a sustaining member for a modest $20 and in return, we'll immediately hide those pesky ads plus provide access to future articles for a full year. This winning combination will vastly improve your AAJ experience and allow us to vigorously build on the pioneering work we first started in 1995. So enjoy an ad-free AAJ experience and help us remain a positive beacon for jazz by making a donation today.

More

Sensual
Rachel Z
Over and Over
Tony Monaco Trio
Love Is Passing Thru
Roberto Magris

Popular

Get more of a good thing!

Our weekly newsletter highlights our top stories, our special offers, and upcoming jazz events near you.