Pete Brady and His Big Band: With a Song in My Heart

Working out of Central Florida, Pete Brady is a crooner who builds images of Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra. He has a strong tenor/baritone voice similar to Tony Bennett's, even capturing Bennett's special vibrancy when singing those songs Tony does. With a range that allows him to hit high notes with ease, Brady comfortably handles a program of 15 familiar tunes backed by a band that carries his name but is led by Mike Lewis. Lewis also supplied the outstanding arrangements. The chart for and Brady's rendition of "Stardust" are simply elegant. For most of the up tempo material, the strings are dropped creating a jazzier feel, much the same way Nelson Riddle used to do with another crooner of note, Frank Sinatra. Brady can also swing as he shows on" Up a Lazy River "and "With a Song in My Heart". Even the strings bounce along on this cut. Brady's obvious delight in the material engages the listener right from the first track and carries through the entire session.

The band earns an A+ for the way it backs Brady. Ensemble work sizzles on the swing numbers and is appropriately tender on ballads. Solos are limited, but when they come like the fine tenor on "Our Love Is Here to Stay", they are solid and jazzy. Unfortunately, no credit is given for these outings in the liner notes. Is Brady a jazz singer? The same question has been asked many times about Sinatra and Bennett. If one has the talent to entertain like they have, the question is moot. Highly recommended.

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