Jazz Articles about Donna Byrne

About Donna Byrne

Getting Into Jazz

Let's Face the Music and Dance

by Mark Barnett
August 3, 2016

Getting Started If you're new to jazz, go to our Getting Into Jazz primer for some hints on how to listen. CD Capsule Stellar renditions of jazz standards by a wonderful singer who understands the songs and extracts genuine tenderness and excitement from them. To top it off, she's surrounded by a group of jazz musicians who share her sensibility. Background Amid the throng of moaners, shouters and chanteuses ...

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Album Review

Donna Byrne: Licensed to Thrill

Read "Licensed to Thrill" reviewed by Ed Felper

by Ed Felper
December 13, 2002

Any recording titled Licensed to Thrill sets up a certain expectation. Unfortunately, the latest CD from the Boston-based vocalist rarely lives up to its promise. Byrne delivers a solid, competent set of pop and jazz standards, but her thin, reedy voice isn't particularly distinctive or compelling, much less thrilling. What sparkles are the nuanced, textured arrangements by bassist and husband Marshall Wood and the masterful performances by her sidemen. Scott Hamilton's soaring tenor sax underlines the light-hearted rhythms of “Nobody ...

176

Album Review

Donna Byrne: Don't Dream of Anybody But Me

Read "Don't Dream of Anybody But Me" reviewed by Dave Nathan

by Dave Nathan
April 1, 2001

A true gem of a singer, Donna Byrne's latest is a 14-track journey through the pages of the Great American Songbook, and along the way she brilliantly captures the essence of each of these chestnuts. But Byrne knows how to extend herself far beyond mere recitation of the words. Her delivery is so engaging, so dazzling, so bright that each tune is an entertaining foray into the world of the art of jazz vocal. Not only is she equipped with ...