Jeanie Bryson: Deja Blue

One of today's top jazz singers, Jeanie Bryson delivers convincingly with down-home expression. Lucid lyrics, comfortable phrasing, and mellow harmony make her session easy to like. Her warm, seductive style continues to recall Peggy Lee. Jazz & blues, swing & cabaret, R&B and pop "" she's a natural for all aspects of vocal music. Bryson's fourth major album may be her best yet. Fourteen audio clips from each of her albums may be sampled from her web site .

"Deja Blue" starts the session slowly with a deliberate drive. It's a lush, 12-bar blues that welcomes you into the singer's congenial household. Etta Jones joins Bryson for "It's So Nice to Have a Man Around the House" to trade choruses and share in the blues mood of the album. While Connie Bryson's lovely jazz waltz, "Do You Sometimes Think of Us?" hypnotizes the listener; it serves to connect the past with Jeanie Bryson's unique style. When appropriate, she alters the pitch to make her point. Storytelling comes naturally to the gifted singer, and everyone knows what it's like to sit through performances that do not convince. Just take a quick look at your radio and television advertising for a reminder.

Bryson's sensual session includes superb instrumental interludes that complement her vocals. Gerry Niewood, Coleman Mellett, Christian McBride, Ted Brancato and Steve Nelson contribute loose, moving solos that match the leader's mood. It's been a while since we've been treated to a new album by Jeanie Bryson; but this one, fortunately, rekindles the fire. It's about time.