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Various: Concord's Women in Jazz - The New Century
Notwithstanding the narrow presentation, the album is chock full of top flight performances by well-known artists. Most compilations are outstanding because the label is likely to include only the best of the best from its vaults. Most of the vocalists are from straight ahead jazz. The two "improvisors" are Nnenna Freelon and Sheila E. Freelon's entry "Better Than Anything" features superb tenor sax work by Kirk Whalum. The singer's scatting begins with a quote from"Old Man River". There's more great sax on Diane Schuur's "Easy Living" with those captivating lyrical sounds uniquely conceived by Stan Getz. Another highlight among highlights is Monica Mancini's version of "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive" recalling Johnny Mercer's 1944 rendition with the Pied Pipers. But above all, it's Rosie Clooney gets the gold star for "Brazil". A master of phrasing and timing, she is a living textbook on the art of singing passages from entries in the Great American Popular Songbook.
The CD is a fine compilation of good works by talented people and is recommended. The liner notes list the albums from which these cuts were taken. Hopefully by the next edition, Concord will have distaff trombone, trumpet, sax, etc. players on their artist roster. Wishful thinking?
Track Listing
Easy Living - Diane Schuur w/Stan Getz; Better Than Anything - Nnenna Freelon; I Can Dream, Can't I? - Susannah McCorkle; A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening - Keely Smith; What's New - Karrin Allyson; Brazil - Rosemary Clooney; Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive - Monica Mancini; Take the "A" Train - Marian McPartland; You've Changed - Niki Harris; N Perfect Time - Sheila E.
Album information
Title: Concord's Women in Jazz - The New Century | Year Released: 2001 | Record Label: Concord Music Group