Diana Krall: When I Look In Your Eyes

Diana Krall's previous release, Love Scenes, occupied the top spot on all the major jazz charts for many months and was the first jazz album ever to be certified platinum (100,000 units) in Canada. Diana's phenomenal success is due not only to her obvious musical talents, but those of producer Tommy LiPuma as well. LiPuma (remember George Benson's record-breaking Breezin' album?) is a master at presenting contemporary jazz artists in a manner that appeals to hard-core jazz fans and casual listeners alike. Although When I Look In Your Eyes adds a couple of new "wrinkles" to his recipe for success, I see no reason why this terrific CD shouldn't prolong Krall's/LiPuma's winning streak. It marks Krall's departure from her standard trio setting with the addition of string and orchestral "sweetening" by the noted arranger/conductor Johnny Mandel. Thankfully, LiPuma has the good sense and "smarts" to place Krall's subtle, seductive voice front and center in the mix. The orchestrations never overpower Diana's fluid piano solos or intrude on the vocal nuances she extracts from the timeless classics on this 12-track collection. Subtlety really is the key here. * * * *