Jane Monheit: Come Dream With Me

If you purchase Come Dream With Me based on the incredible amount of hype singer Jane Monheit’s sophomore effort has generated, you’re bound to be disappointed. While Ms. Monheit certainly possesses the tools necessary to obtain stardom in the modern jazz world – good looks and a flexible voice – she’s a long way from becoming the “next Ella”, as she so clearly aspires to be. I certainly didn’t have a problem with her all-star band — Kenny Barron (piano), Christian McBride (bass), and Greg Hutchinson (drums), with guest appearances by Michael Brecker (sax) and Tom Harrell (trumpet). However, problems do arise with Monheit’s inability to control her vocal histrionics (think a jazzier Celine Dion) and her choice of songs. While she is charming on Jobim’s "Waters of March" and the Mendez/Bergman composition, "So Many Stars," her inclusion of Bread’s moldy 70’s pop hit "If" and an overwrought rendition of "Over The Rainbow," must be seen as major missteps. Just so-so. ##

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