Veronica Thomas: Veronica Thomas They Say It's Wonderful

Broadway musicals and cinema soundtrack songs have been full-bloom gardens for material harvested by singers and instrumentalists. From the romantic to the dramatic to the humorous and novelty, artists have had the buona fortuna of such a vast treasury. Partnering with the insight of producer John Proulx, (himself a marvelous singer/pianist/composer) and a cadre of LA greats, highly entertaining vocalist Veronica Thomas superbly delivers a dozen Broadway and film standards—and a standout Proulx original—with They Say It's Wonderful.

"Almost in Your Arms," an Oscar-nominated song from a 1958 film (Houseboat, Paramount Pictures) starts the album with a swinging take from Thomas. Bassist Mike Gurrola also gives a nice ride. It is a tasty appetizer. The tune is rarely presented introduction and Bob Sheppard's soprano launches a misterioso, yet swinging version of "Get Out of Town." Thomas' vibe here adamantly points the way to the highway. On "Invitation," Thomas deftly hip-hops lines and the song ultimately breaks into a straight-ahead spinner. Proulx and Gurrola launch fine solos before Thomas takes it out. The title track, Irving Berlin's "They It Is Wonderful," has her adhering delicately to the tune with Sheppard's deeply tasteful tenor calling. "If I Were a Bell," from Guys and Dolls, has Thomas swinging it heavily. Along with a Gurrola solo, Proulx's solo and back and forth with Kevin Van Den Elzen add sass to the effort.

Thomas is a higher-voiced vocalist with a great sensitivity, swing, razor intonation and soul. She is intrepid about delivering well-workhorsed material. And, with Proulx's guidance and musicianship, she is framed impeccably, delivers most admirably, and is thoroughly relaxed in her artistry. Proulx's piano chops are as excellent as his production skills. Bob Sheppard, always an in-demand vocalist's reed-playing partner, delivers in spades. Mike Gurrola's bass and drummer Kevin van den Elzen lend generously to this album's joy.

"Speak Low" has Thomas singing over van den Elzen's brushwork before it breaks into a hip samba-like swinger. The groove here is contagious. Bassist Gurrola delivers a fine solo. Thomas and Sheppard scat too. It is an out of the ordinary take. The one original is the lovely Proulx-K. Lawrence Dunham-composed, "Stuck in a Dream." Thomas sings this with great feeling. The texture is all reves d' amour. The last sequence is perfection. It is a highlight track. "Too Late Now" is a slow dance ballad from Royal Wedding (M-G-M, 1951) which Thomas covers in a reserved, yet loving way. Although slower in tempo, the tune has a faint "Saving All My Love for You" shadow. "Two for the Road" by Henry Mancini is becoming frequently visited. Thomas is joined by Proulx as a duo. Bob Sheppard's flute add butterfly flights over the pair. It is an elegant closer.

They Say It's Wonderful is a splendidly entertaining album from an elegant vocalist who is certainly worthy of more studio recording visits.

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