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Nancy Kelly: Jazz Woman: The Reel to Real Sessions
ByEarly in her career she also tried her hand at songwriting, and produced a handful of captivating tunes that were shelved until 2022. Two of those are now available on Jazz Woman: The Reel to Real Sessions and their release coincides with Kelly being inducted into the Rochester Music Hall of Fame.
The bluesy title track features soulful refrains and a swaggering cadence. Kelly's interpretation of the witty lyrics are, of course, intimate and effortless while the horns often underscore her emotive delivery. Trumpeter Freddie Hendrix takes a suave and muted solo which mirrors Kelly's singing in its elegance.
Meanwhile the effervescent "Move Over" is a lush, Latinesque, ballad which opens with tenor saxophonist Harry Allen's eloquent, warm lines. Over buoyant rhythmic vamps, which vibraphonist Jimmy Johns enhances with his resonant mallets, Kelly launches into a sensual rendition of her own composition. Her voice undulates around the words, caressing them with gentle passion. Allen takes center stage with his signature bravado and sophisticated style.
Kelly penned these pieces decades ago yet they sound as fresh and relevant as any contemporary music. This is a testament to her superb talent and musicianship. The unique combination of youthful enthusiasm and its seasoned interpretation make for an intriguing and captivating listening experience.
Track Listing
Jazz Woman; Move Over.
Personnel
Nancy Kelly
vocalsFreddie Hendrix
trumpetHarry Allen
saxophoneJohn J. DiMartino
drumsJimmy Johns
vibraphoneWesley Amorim
guitarEd Howard
bassCarmen Intorre
drumsAlbum information
Title: Jazz Woman: The Reel to Real Sessions | Year Released: 2022 | Record Label: Self Produced
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