Customer Reviews

Blues in City

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

What did we ever do without those listening centers in music stores? I had no idea who this lovely woman was when I put on the headphones, but from the first few chords and notes from this jazz singer, it was love at first listen. Oh my, is this good. My Diana Krall cd's will take a ride in the backseat until I get a few dozen more spins of Ms. Butler. Also being unknown to me is the record label, MAXJAZZ, and I will be exploring their website to see other artists they have. Perfectly produced by Bruce Barth, who also plays piano throughout beautifully. The packaging should also be noted as well. A great quote in the inside jacket by Ms. Butler states: "I am a jazz singer...the vibe is in the blues". Truer words have not been spoken.

A nice understated singer who doesn't have to caterwaul or stray outside the boundaries of the tune to be hip. With each disc Ms. Butler gets better and better. In my opinion, she's the best vocalist on MaxJazz -- and really gorgeous a la Horne. I hate to use the overused word, but "cool" suits her.
Good songwriter, too.

laverne is a fine discovery for me. her style is subdued yet sexy. she stands out with jazzy tunes and just as good with her bluesy style. this album will make you check the store for her next recording.

is all I can say about this jazz singer who I discovered recently at the listening station at my local music store. I don't know why Ms. Butler isn't better known; she is truly a talented singer who, in my opinion, beats Diana Krall hands down when it comes to versatility and range. There is some great piano playing on this CD too! If you're looking for something new to add to your jazz collection, you won't be disappointed.

i also discovered Ms.Butler while at a listening station at Borders.i listened to A Foolish Thing To Do and was made a believer.her rendition of one of my favorite songs-Dindi-is one of the best EVER!i went out then and got this cd.although not as strong as Foolish,this cd has some great monents,and great musicians.i really enjoy the blues tinged jazz.

I bought this CD after listening to a couple tracks in the music store: I have to say that I am disappointed in the disc as a whole. Although I am a fan of daring singers like Betty Carter and Diane Reeves, they seem to keep their voices more on target than Ms. Butler, who seems to be missing notes as often as she hits them. She can punch a note like nobody's business, but the melody gets lost. Sure it's jazz with a blues vibe, but its hard to take forty minutes of the caterwaul when the voice and the piano are working at cross purposes. The choice of tunes is first rate: "Since I fell for you" and "Willow weep for me" can always be done in a fresh way, but her vocal meanderings make you wish for the occasional phrase just sung straight up.... That said, I appreciate Ms Butler's vocal daring and some of her phrasing, but I prefer the way that other newcomers such as Carla Cook ("It's all about love") can work a song so that you follow where it's going, and you're inspired to stay along for the ride.

The CD and cover are clearly labelled Laverne Baker Blues in the City, but the CD turned out to be one by Phyllis Hyman.