Hannah Gill: Spooky Jazz. Vol. 2

In most cases, seasonal albums get shelved after the holiday passes, but Hannah Gill's Spooky Jazz Vol. 2 is an exception. Although it might appear to be a novelty record centered on Halloween-themed songs, the music here transcends the holiday, offering a collection of tunes enjoyable throughout the year.

Although the selections here are overall light-hearted and whimsical, this is by no means a comedy record. Much like Slim Gaillard's music, Hannah Gill's material entertains and swings hard, recalling the era when singers like Annie Ross and Eartha Kitt topped jazz polls. Spooky Jazz Vol. 2 reminds us that serious music can bring a smile to your face.

As the title suggests, this is not Gill's first foray into Halloween-themed jazz. Her original self-produced Spooky Jazz album released in 2020 came about after her unsuccessful attempt to locate any jazz albums centered on Halloween. As a result, she decided to record her album, inspired heavily by the music of the forties and fifties. Unfortunately, it did not receive the attention it deserved, but Gill pressed on, returning to the studio for another Halloween jazz record. While this initial offering was noteworthy, Spooky Jazz Vol. 2 takes it to the next level. Gill's vision for this album is rooted in her passion for blending traditional jazz with theatrical vibes, creating a more polished and ambitious sequel.

Gill's impressive vocal talent is backed by experience. Moving to New York City shortly after graduating from high school, she quickly found enough work to maintain a full-time music career. Spooky Jazz Vol. 2 features Gill along with a group of top-notch musicians, including Mike Davis on trumpet and trombone, Gabe Terracciano on violin, Ricky Alexander on clarinet and tenor saxophone, Gordon Webster on piano, Justin Poindexter on guitar, Philip Ambuel on bass and Ben Zweig on drums.

The album opens with a superb rendition of Eartha Kitt's "I'd Rather Be Burned as a Witch," setting the tone for this collection of classic and contemporary tunes. Nostalgic jazz songs such as Blossom Dearie's "Love is a Necessary Evil," Dinah Washington's "My Man's an Undertaker," along with tried and true standards like "That Old Black Magic" and "Shine on Harvest Moon" combine with more contemporary choices like Danny Elfman's "Oogie Boogie's Song," creating a compelling, eclectic set.

Spooky Jazz Vol. 2 features some excellent arrangements and musicianship, and Gill is a vocalist who deserves recognition. Even if Halloween has passed, Spooky Jazz Vol. 2 delivers the goods. There's no trick, just treat.