Label: Tcb
Jazz
American born, but living in Switzerland since 1964, Vince Benedetti has worked with such luminaries as Dexter Gordon, Johnny Griffin, Dizzy Gillespie, and Stan Getz, besides leading his own ensembles. He discovered Diana Krall singing in a hotel bar in his adopted homeland in 1988. She joined his band for a European tour and this album was recorded in 1990. It never found release at the time, but Krall's subsequent success has now brought it to light. Seven Benedetti originals make it clear why the composer and pianist (not to mention trombonist as well) felt he'd found an ideal voice for his songs. With guitarist Martien Oster, bassist Christoph Sprenger, and drummer Alberto Canonico, Krall sails through them with a swooping vigor and confidence one associates with timeless standards. Two numbers are offered in alternate takes, purposely played shorter to encourage radio airplay. From saucy swagger to lilting balladry, this is a perfectly matched set of players and material. It's also an early look at a singer whose debut wasn't to appear until three years after these recordings were made. By David Greenberger.
Brand new artwork and updated packaging! The title has SoundScanned over 17,000 CDs to date. Vince Benedetti met Diana Krall in Zurich, 1988. After learning that Krall was working as a singer-pianist in one of Zurich's most established hotels, he went to see her play and was astounded by her talent. This collaboration between the two respected artists is a collection of light, melodic compositions. Krall's sensuous voice and impeccable phrasing add a particular flavor to a program of titles, mostly by Benedetti.
**
I'll admit I was skeptical about this "found" recording. I put off purchasing it for a long time even though it kept being 'suggested' by 'others who bought this CD also bought so-and-so'. Know what I mean? I wasn't sure what to expect--usually an unknown artist uses these types of sessions to slowly, methodically perfect their already god-given talents, knowing that the recording probably won't ever get a release date. Not in this case--the perfection was already there, recognized by Mr. Benedetti (rightly so) and captured in a sizzling studio session. Ms. Krall's voice is sparkling, not overproduced or overpowered by any other instrument or the occasional harmonies with another musician. Her piano playing is phenomenal, giving clues that the future was going to be bright for her.
This CD completes my library of Ms. Krall's work. I rate it with her latest release "Live in Paris" as tied for first, with all other releases tied for second (with the exception of the lushly overproduced "The Look of Love"- third place). If you've never bought a Diana Krall CD I wouldn't recommend buying this one first--you might be put off by the choice of material, as most selections are not 'mainstream'. I might suggest "Steppin' Out" or "All for You" as an introduction to Ms. Krall. "Live in Paris" should then be picked up--as I feel that this is when Ms. Krall is at her best - live. "Heartdrops" has that 'live' feeling to it, with the only criticism being that I wish there was more piano playing from Ms. Krall. The group is tight--it would be interesting to see what would result from all of them stepping into the studio today and recording some little known jazz tunes. Hmmm...
Thank goodness Ms. Krall hailed that particular cab in that particular city at that particular time with that particular driver. Mr. Benedetti knew a great thing, was smart enough to capture it, 'find' it years later and get it released. How often do you get to hear your favorite artist in their musical 'infancy'? This is bare bones jazz at its best--worth a listen and a special place in your jazz library.
By Monique M. Richison.
**
01. The News 5:03
02. Sunshine Express 7:23
03. Detroit Blues 6:29
04. Your Destiny 7:46
05. Who Are You 8:36
06. My Love 5:10
07. Evidence 10:21
08. Detroit Blues (Radio Short Version) 3:24
09. My Love (Radio Short Version) 3:18
**
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