Rose Mallett: Dreams Realized

Rose Mallett has an intriguing story, and that history comes out in her singing. While she is a chameleon, channeling Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald, she is also a powerhouse performer, witty and a born raconteur. One could think of a lot worse combinations in a jazz singer. Mallett seemingly knows how to work a room pretty well too.

Born in Chicago, and growing up in Los Angeles, Mallett has a broad musical background that included singing in church, working with Motown demos, backup vocals, and ultimately working in clubs, especially in Palm Springs. She has a lot of chops, and easily adapts herself to a variety of genres, of which pop, jazz, and soul (or some mixture) come naturally. Mallett obviously likes what she does. Her voice conveys emotion, experience, enthusiasm, a lot of living. She does the Great American Songbook but in her own way, and distinctively. Her sources include Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, B.B. King and even Armando Manzanero. It is not difficult to think she should be better known beyond Southern California, because her work is not only moving, but also sassy and fun.

When was the last time we heard a recording that included "It's Impossible," "The Snake" and "Send in the Clowns"? Interesting combination. "It's Impossible" can be cloying in the wrong hands, but Mallett's is reflective, and even includes some very passable Spanish. It is followed by a down and dirty "Rock Me Baby," a complement to "The Snake," so one gets a dose of gritty blues, and some arch accompaniment, particularly by Nolan Shaheed on trumpet. Hard not to be entertained. Mallett closes with a particularly evocative "If I Never Sing Another Song." That would really be a shame, because Rose Mallett has a lot to offer. One of these days, she needs to record "My Way" . With this band, one hopes.