Judi Silvano: Let Yourself Go

Guess it was about time. This is Judi Silvano's first album of standards, and if it need be said, these are the songs her mother loves. Well, mother Miriam has good taste and daughter Judi has the voice to give them a rich, red-blooded vein. Silvano is also blessed in having a top notch band and an arranger who knows how to filter the essence masterfully. But in the final analysis, it is the interpreter of song that stands in the spotlight and Silvano fills the slot admirably.

Silvano's precise enunciation and poignant reading raise "I'm In the Mood For Love" to a high level of communication. Her lone accompanist is Rufus Reid, who is supple and supportive with textures that add resonance and the pith. Silvano sketches a strong portrait on "When I Fall In Love," ably supported by trombonist Dan Silverman, pianist Michael Abene, and drummer Newman Taylor-Barker on brushes, all of whom shade the vocals and add a compelling dimension. Another outstanding performance comes on "Let's Fall In Love," her voice full of yearning and expectation.

As an arranger, Abene knows how to chart the course of the instrumentalists to get the best out of them and into the song. In addition, he opens the playing field, a prime instance coming on "Why Do I Love You?" Silvano scats, Reid scampers, the horns exult in unison, Dick Oatts gets the alto edgy and keening, before Silvano gets back to scat and sing.

Visit Judi Silvano online at www.JudiSilvano.com .