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Suzanne Pittson: Resolution: A Remembrance Of John Coltrane

By Jim Santella
September 1, 1999
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Suzanne Pittson: Resolution: A Remembrance Of John Coltrane

Scat singing and original lyrics mark Suzanne Pittson’s second release, which is centered on John Coltrane’s landmark A Love Supreme album. With a piano trio and tenor saxophonist, altering her voice at times as if it were a trumpet, Pittson sings of life and love, the deep feelings we have buried inside, and how the music can help us find our way. From Northern California, the singer holds Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from San Francisco State University, where she studied with saxophonist John Handy. Pittson teaches jazz singing at Sonoma State University.

Three straightforward ballads mix with more lively fare to offer something for everyone. The vocalist sounds quite like Carmen McRae on "I Wish I Knew," as she sings out fresh, light seamless phrases. It’s the most beautiful part of the album. Another of Pittson’s influences, Sarah Vaughan, shows through on "You Don’t Know What Love Is," as the singer pronounces slowly and dramatically with expression. Elsewhere, things turn toward the spiritual and forceful nature of Coltrane’s later period. The title track, "Resolution," and "Pursuance" include lyrics by Pittson and her husband Jeff that are printed in full in the liner booklet. Memorable, the lyrics and music pay homage to a master of thought-provoking straight-ahead jazz.

Track Listing

Liberia; My One and Only Love; Prelude to Resolution; Resolution; Introduction to Pursuance; Pursuance; Remembrance; The Night Has a Thousand Eyes; I Wish I Knew; African Skies; You Don't Know What Love Is

Personnel

Suzanne Pittson

vocals

Alex Murzyn

saxophone

Jeff Pittson

piano

Glenn Richman

bass

Wally Schnalle

drums

Album information

Title: Resolution: A Remembrance Of John Coltrane | Year Released: 1999 | Record Label: Vineland

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