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Barbara Sfraga: Under the Moon
ByAn extended version of Hoagy Carmichael's vocally difficult "Stardust" begins the CD. Its sinewy a capella melodic statement is joined by a tropical rhythm as its lyrics unhurriedly tumble forward to give this most classic of love songs its due. Breezy Latin versions of "I've Grown Accustomed to His Face" and the usually sedate "You've Changed" evidence Sfraga's ability to bring a new awareness to very familiar melodies. Three Ellington classics are also given new faces: "Mood Indigo" is presented with long sensual phrasing, "Sophisticated Lady" has a pleasantly surprising almost happy mood, and "Prelude to a Kiss" is a tour de force for Sullivan as he gets down and funky providing a perfect counterpoint for Sfraga's vocal.
The sole self-penned number, "Never Walk Away," is a full-speed-ahead percussive adventure whose clever contemporary lyrics let the intended target know where he stands. Two intriguing inclusions are Dylan's 1980 ode to spiritual redemption, "Every Grain of Sand," and singer/songwriter Angela Bofill's titular inspiration "Under the Moon and Over the Sky." While the latter is primarily an expansion of the original's exotica feel, Dylan's under-recorded gem is given reverential treatment reminiscent of Joan Baez's best lyrical interpretations of his work. A look Under the Moon reveals that Sfraga's star is rising.
Track Listing
1. Stardust 2. I've Grown Accustomed To His Face 3. Mood Indigo 4. You've Changed 5. It Might As Well Be Spring 6. Under The Moon and Over The Sky 7. Sophisticated Lady 8. Prelude To A Kiss 9. Never Walk Away 10. Every Grain of Sand
Personnel
Barbara Sfraga
vocalsBarbara Sfraga: Vocals; John McLean: Guitars; Paul Wertico: Drums; Christopher Dean Sullivan: Acoustic Bass, Indigenous Tribal Nuances; Kevin Patrick: Percussion.
Album information
Title: Under The Moon | Year Released: 2003 | Record Label: A440 Music