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Barb Jungr: The Men I Love: The New American Songbook
ByDisparate genres such as the Talking Heads' "Once in a Lifetime," Neil Diamond/The Monkees' "I'm a Believer," and Bruce Springsteen's "The River" populate this recital. Most are taken at a languid ballad pace, with the exception of a spritely and energetic "You Ain't Going Nowhere." Jungr treats the Dylan song like a 19th-century American classic, accurately casting Bob Dylan in the role of a modern Stephen Foster. Paul Simon's "My Little Town" is sung as a quiet ballad thoughtfully and beautifully rendered.
Jungr is no stranger to the cabaret scene, having won the 2008 Nightlife Award in New York. Her craft is the recasting of popular song, revealing pleasures previously hidden by the lesser interpretations of these numbers. Her arrangements, tasks shared with pianist Russell Procope, are all evenly fine. The closing "Wichita Lineman," with Wallace's raindrop accompaniment, perfectly demonstrates the completeness of Jungr's fine craft.
Track Listing
Once in a Lifetime; I'm a Believer; Breaking Down the Walls of Heartache; Night Comes On; Can't Get Used to Losing You / Red Red Wine; The River; I Saw the Light; This Old Heart of Mine / Love Hurts; Everything I Own; You Ain't Going Nowhere; My Little Town; Wichita Lineman.
Personnel
Barb Jungr
vocalsBarb Jungr: vocals; Simon Wallace: piano, Hammond organ, keyboards; Steve Watts: double bass; Frank Schaefer: cello; Clive Bell: flute, shakuhachi; Paul Clarvis: percussion.
Album information
Title: The Men I Love: The New American Songbook | Year Released: 2010 | Record Label: Naim Label
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