Calabria Foti: When A Woman Loves A Man

Every so often we stumble upon an artist who delivers the goods while displaying star-like qualities. In some or dare we say – many instances, these artists receive the backing and financial support from giant conglomerates and their huge marketing budgets. Target marketing, sales ploys and return on investment are just ways and means of doing business while striving for that sometimes - elusive profit margin in the sky.

With that, we introduce someone who may represent somewhat of an antithesis to the norm or commonplace promotional initiatives as West Coast based vocalist Calabria Foti has quietly or unassumingly assembled a thoroughly enjoyable set of popular standards. Ms Foti’s charming seductiveness, crystal clear voice, acute jazz vernacular and charismatic presence shines on When A Woman Loves A Man. The vocalist’s peppery, yet smooth-as-silk delivery comes to the forefront on the swinging opener and standard, “I Hadn’t Anyone ‘Till You” which features an up-front and richly melodic tenor sax solo by West Coast sharpshooter Pete Christlieb. The musicians’ bouncy rendition of “Like Someone In Love” is further enhanced by strong solos from pianist Matt Henry and tenorist Christlieb yet it’s Ms. Foti’s endearing and quite soft tonalities along with near flawless diction that provides the excitement and joyous sentiment. Ms Foti’s understated warmth, relaxed groove and sensuous yet meaningful rendition of the lovely classic, “When A Woman Loves A Man” emits a contemporary feel. The magnificent trombonist Bob McChesney adds a delicately soft string arrangement that accentuates Ms. Foti’s lush incantations on “I’m Gonna Laugh You Right Out Of My Life”. On this piece, McChesney also counterbalances Ms. Foti’s harmonious vocals with a mid-toned trombone solo that casts a somber yet altogether positive vibe to the subtly cheerful proceedings. Ms. Foti and pianist Matt Henry perform sincere and tender lines with grace and passion on “All The Way” as McChesney once again summons the unidentified string section to furnish the appropriate tonal color and shade towards the coda. Here, McChesney works the arrangement as if he were a painter providing the dainty brush strokes to a canvass depicting a portrait or scenic landscape.....

In summary, When A Woman Loves A Man is on the upswing, wonderfully recorded and an altogether well rounded affair, featuring the lovely vocals of Ms. Foti who really knows how to turn a lyric or two into something meaningful and impressionable. Based upon talent alone Calabria Foti’s star is seemingly on the rise......... Recommended. * * * *