Natalie Jacob: Sooner Or Later

Sooner Or Later is jazz vocalist Natalie Jacob's debut release. It is a refreshing addition to the jazz landscape, blending classic Great American Songbook tunes and bossa nova standards. Produced by Grammy Award winner Scotty Barnhart, the album benefits from the contributions of an outstanding ensemble, including Barnhart on trumpet, pianist Tamir Hendelman, guitarist Anthony Wilson, bassist Carlitos del Puerto, drummer Clayton Cameron and percussionist Kevin Winard. This all-star lineup created a rich backdrop for Jacob's compelling vocal interpretations.

Using songs from her live performances gave Jacob an easy familiarity with the material, and it shows from the opening number, "Exactly Like You." With an arrangement by the swinging and sensitive pianist Hendelman, Jacob delivers the lyrics in an attentive hand-in-glove fashion. Both Barnhart and Hendelman offer clear and definitive solos. The first of the Antonio Carlos Jobim numbers is "Wave," on which the percussionist Winard lays down the soothing boss nova rhythm on which Jacob covers the lyrics with a sunny and gently sailing delivery.

Brooks Bowman's classic "East Of The Sun (And West Of The Moon) has an ingenious charm driven by the Del Puerto opening bass line that leads into the rhythm section's groove. Jacob uses her voice as an instrument of empathy and intimacy, delivering the lyrics with composure. Jacob, who has French-Canadian heritage and has spent time in Montreal, Canada, brings her bilingual skills to bear on Jobim's "Corcovado," singing in English and French with her nuanced phrasing shining through. The collaboration with percussionist Kevin Winard and guitarist Anthony Wilson is particularly noteworthy as their expressive playing complements Jacob's vocals perfectly.

The irrepressible Cole Porter wrote the swinging gem "I've Got You Under My Skin." The rhythm section of Hendelman, Del Puerto and Cameron lays a harmonic foundation and flexible groove which supports Jacob's vibrant vocal lines.

The title track, "Sooner Or Later," is a Stephen Sondheim creation done in a bluesy style. With Barnhart's muted trumpet in the background, Jacob shows she has an emotional connection to the lyrics, infusing them with a contemporary freshness. Jobim's "No More Blues" (Chega De Saudade) closes the session joyfully. Backed by the full ensemble's stellar contribution, Jacob's vocals have an unerring sense of swing and bustling with vital energy.