Patty Ascher: Bossa, Jazz ‘n’ Samba (2011)

C. MICHAEL BAILEY,

C. Michael Bailey

Senior Contributor since 1997

...wants to know if Gene Harris is playing "Summertime" in Heaven...

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Published: June 22, 2011

Track review of "Booking Time"

Brazilian singer Patty Ascher has an embarrassment of talent riches. She is an accomplished singer and songwriter who displays both talents convincingly on Bossa, Jazz 'n' Samba. Supported by a superb band, Ascher displays an impressive depth and breadth of lyric invention carefully arranged by an array of composers. Her voice is a well-balanced mezzo, creamy and rich with a smooth and silky texture.

Among the ten originals on Bossa, Jazz 'n' Samba is Ascher's "Booking Time," which could be heard as her "Hit the Road, Jack." Rhythmically, the song is a staccato strut that swings hard over a contemporary harmonic scaffold that recalls George Michael by way of Count Basie. Infectious and fun, "Booking Time" is a finger-popping three-minute walk, plushly arranged and cleverly performed by Ascher, who is bound to have more music like this up her sleeve.

Personnel: Patty Ascher: vocals; Marco Pontes: piano; Ronaldo Rayol: acoustic guitar; Roberto Menescal: guitar; Ubaldo Versolate: saxophone and flute; Eric Budney: bass; Nahame Casseb: drums.

Record Label: Zoho Music