Tanya Kalmanovitch: Winterland

Winterland is a gem — a sophisticated, understated blend of classical music, jazz and pop. Classically trained violinist/violist/vocalist Tanya Kalmanovitch keeps things nice and mellow throughout this unique 10-track collection. Acoustic bassist John Hyde and guitarist Russell Broom round out Tanya’s trio and provide sympathetic, minimalist accompaniment. Not only is Tanya a fine musician, she’s a witty, intelligent composer as well. Her Love Is Just A Word and Temperance Street are both hauntingly poetic. The trio also performs a jaunty arrangement of Charles Mingus’ Fables Of Faubus and puts a little swing into Monk’s bopish Blue Monk. All three musicians stretch out on John Hyde’s appropriately titled, Hand & Bow. Winterland closes on a rather sad note with the albums’ melancholy title track. It tells the tale of a lonely person, living in a cold, lonely world. Tanya’s sultry, world-weary vocals fit the simple, moody lyrics like a glove. (####) Note: If you wish to purchase this CD and are unable to find it at your local record shop, phone (800) 633-8282 or visit the Festival Web site at www.festival.bc.ca