Amandah Jantzen's second album documents considerable progress toward becoming an outstanding, articulate interpreter of classics from the Great American Songbook. She is ably assisted by first rate personnel and simple, straightforward arrangements which give these oft recorded tunes a fresh perspective.
Janzten never gets in a rut as she treats each tune as if it were the only one on the CD. Each one gets distinctive attention, avoiding the trap of predictability. On
"Summertime," she is sultry, sassy, and swinging. On
"Cheek to Cheek," with its footloose rhythm,
Janzten adds some humor by modifying the lyrics. The requisite music from Brazil is here, with one of the gems of that genre,
"How Insensitive." As much as any, this tune spotlights
Jantzen's appreciation for the lyrics she is singing as she gives each word its due. There's also that slight catch in the voice leaving a hint of sensuality.
"What'll I Do?" indicates a simple innocence in some of the directions
Jantzen's takes the music. Then there are the sidemen who are not just along to backstop the singer -- though they do a commendable job of that -- but have plenty of opportunities to express their ideas about virtually every track.
Al Wold, with his
Zoot Sims-like tenor and occasional foray on clarinet,
Craig Scott's vibes, and
Ihor Kukurudza's clean, strummed guitar all have their moments in the sun, while
Chris Sigerson's does yoeman work making sure matters stay the course. They all remain with the mood set for the album, staying relaxed, sensitive, and gently expressive. There's no instrumental bursting or bombing before, during, or after a vocal refrain. This is a fine twinkling album from a vocalist who grows with every note she sings. ~ Dave Nathan
