Suzanne Pittson: Blues And The Abstract Truth

Billy Eckstine once said to an aspiring vocalist "Use your natural chops, never affect an accent that is not your own" and to her credit there is not one iota of affectation in Suzanne Pittson's vocal style. She sings with clarity and never loses the essence of the song with useless histrionics. Pittson's instrument is her voice. No Saxophones, Brasses, Strings or Percussion can duplicate the human voice, it is an entity unto itself capable of twists, turns and innuendo that no manufactured instrument can accomplish, only imitate. Whether trading fours with the musicians, scatting to complex instrumentals, or evoking pure sensuality as in her rendition of "My Ship," Suzanne Pittson does it all with style and pleasing sonority, only a handful of vocalists possess this gift. "My Ship" is a special song and it is done here with special sophistication. This is Pittson at her very best. Brush work by Mike Clark deftly adds to the number and Jeff Pittson's backing is superb. Inspired scatting on "Butch And Butch" out bops the boys in the band this trip out. "You And The Night And The Music" finds Pittson scatting marvelously at racehorse tempo...Fine Piano solo... Versatility is unveiled in the bittersweet lyrics of "In Love In Vain", cutely done despite the unsettling title. Chanson Noir is the troubling message in "Love For Sale" again this vocalist is impressive in her interpretation. Here is some truth that is not abstract, Suzanne Pittson ranks among the finest singers that I have heard and I have heard the best.This recording will bear witness to her fascinating style and sound.