Customer Reviews

In A Dream

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

If you haven't heard the buzz surrounding this emerging vocal goddess, then it's about time you take a listen for yourself.

Stylistically, Gretchen Parlato has drawn comparisons to the soothing, understated, classic feel of Astrud Gilberto or Chet Baker. But such comparisons are at risk of negating the sizzling contemporary feel of the band she's assembled here, in all its rhythmic glory and orchestral genius. Each member of the rhythm section is a veteran of Terence Blanchard's band, which truly carries on the legacy of Miles Davis in his savvy recruitment of gifted young players with bright futures as bandleaders, which these four gentlemen have all become; but they offer their services as sidemen here with a joyful energy that is undeniable.

Lionel Loueke is the guitarist/vocalist responsible for the baffling accompaniment on the opening Michael Jackson cover, a heartfelt tribute the likes of which you won't hear anywhere else. Two other covers honor the legends whom both Parlato and Loueke have been privileged to learn from firsthand: Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, ring any bells? The remaining trio of Aaron Parks, Derrick Hodge, and Kendrick Scott - on piano, bass & drums respectively - might not `stand out' as much upon first listen, but throughout the album they utilize their rock-solid virtuosity and sensitivity to guide Gretchen through this 'dream' that shifts seamlessly through diverse textures and forms, with an arsenal of both acoustic and electric (and bodily) instruments that keep you tapping your foot but never detract from the bliss offered by the lead voice.

Speaking of which, be advised that this is a woman who refuses to let the beauty of her music be overshadowed by her physical beauty, despite the seductive image she's chosen for the album cover, which merely serves as a perfect representation for the (you guessed it) `dreamy' theme of the set. She stares at you seemingly on the verge of peaceful slumber, inviting you to get 'lost' in this journey that takes you through Brazil, Africa, Motown, California, and her hometown of New York City, employing intoxicating sounds and grooves rooted in each of these places.

More importantly, after you listen to this album 100 times - I guarantee there's nothing to ever get sick of here, only a treasure chest that will never stop inspiring you - you'll realize that Parlato is the only singer on the scene today who can present a project of this caliber so effortlessly, because she's one of the very few (vocal) artists who knows what true expression requires, and doesn't require, and she has worked and studied to develop a flawless, uniquely angelic style that nobody can reasonably question for its tasteful technique.

Through headphones, you'll be astounded by the vulnerability that takes hold as she almost-but-not-quite whispers through many phrases. And she simply floats into her high falsetto, often in unison with the other instruments, a wonderful trick that nobody else can execute with such precision and warmth (listen for the organ in the title track). Not to mention the mature creativity of her overall delivery, or the tone so vibrant yet achingly delicate that it just might make you cry, yet still fill you with hope if you're going through difficult times...

In the end, all that's left here is great music to free your heart and your mind. Forget everything you think `jazz' means. Parlato, along with her friend and comrade Esperanza Spalding, has created an opportunity for people of all cultures and tastes, especially in the times we live in, to simply enjoy themselves through song and dance, with the liberating spirit of improvisation intact. Even if you choose to somehow ignore her compelling lyrical craftsmanship, this voice is one for the ages as an instrument alone.

This is one of my favorite c.d.'s of 2009. The cover of this c.d., of Gretchen Parlato in feathers and/or leaves and/or lace and/or cover art that looks like those things, portends what this c.d. is about. It is truly one of the most sensual sounding recordings in quite awhile.

Ms. Parlato has a very light voice; but it is not breathy. "Breathy" implies air, and she sounds above the air. With the main instrumentation of Kendrick Scott's and Ms. parlato's drums and percussion, and Aaron Parks' Fender Rhodes, this c.d. overall feels like a tapdance on bright, fluffy clouds.

The c.d. almost sounds like a paean to early fusion. In fact, my two favorite tracks on this c.d. are Herbie Hancock's "Butterfly" and Wayne Shorter's "E.S.P.," spliced in with some sing-songy old recording of Gretchen Parlato singing when she was probably a very innocent two or three years old. So, the "Butterfly" is a chrysallis; and the young Miss Parlato had "E.S.P." about what her life might become. Nice.

But another nice touch is the multi-tracked a capella version of "Doralice," a pre-fusion, Bossa staple. This c.d. reminds me that Gretchen Parlato's closest sound counterpart, among the singers I'm familiar with, are a young Flora Purim and Maria Rita.

But the rest of the c.d. gives off the same buzz. From beginning (Stevie Wonder's "I Can't Help It") to end ("Weak"), this c.d. constantly charms the pants off of the listener. Highly recommended. RC

p.s. - The February 2010 edition of "Jazz Times" rates the top 50 c.d.'s of 2009. Amongst vocal jazz c.d.'s, this one is the top-rated disc, #8 overall. RC

I continue to come back to this music when I'm in need of beauty and integrity and class, three factors that have nearly disappeared from pop music. The highlight is the superb cover of the Getz/Jobim/Gilberto classic "Doralice," but the whole cycle of songs feels of a piece. Seamless, gorgeous jazz, wonderfully executed.

"In a dream" is very nice, there are many sophisticated ideas but still the sound manages to stay consistent and natural througout the album. The arrangements are smart and super accurate but not in a brainy way, the songs are very enjoyable and immediate. I'm not incredibly enthusiast about the singing style, it's elegant and refined but I find it a bit too whispered; anyway, it works well with the compositions. Overall, this album offers a refreshing perspective on the possibilities of songwriting/singing in jazz, more so if you're tired of mainstream replicas.

One of my favorite Music Friends, Duane Powell, introduced me to Gretchen Parlato via her jazzy remake of the SWV Classic "Weak." As a general rule, I hope that all remakes do the original the appropriate "justice," otherwise you have NO business remaking the song. Well, Gretchen Parlato KILLS it. After I quickly bought the CD, I was pleasantly surprised to see that she has an amazing talent with original tracks as well as cover songs. From MJ's I Can't Help It to original's like "In A Dream," Gretchen keeps is cool, smooth and sexy. I really hope that people will recognize her talent and give her more airtime, because she truly deserves it. Gretchen, thank you!!

This album is pure beauty! Gretchen Parlato has the most mesmerizing, the most beautifully soft voice I've ever heard. The music itself is amazing and unique. You will not be disappointed with this album. This is her second album, so be sure to check out her most recent release, "The Lost and Found" and her self titled debut album, Gretchen Parlato. You won't be disappointed!!! :)

Gretchen Parlato has done it again. A friend of mine recently introduced me to her music, and now i can't get enough of it! This album is amazing; her voice mixed with the great producers and musicians final touches made this album a true work of art. :)

I was expecting some real daring jazz fusion. This isn't very daring, just almost background music. She has talent, and the songs are fine. She is excellent on Hervie Hancock's "Bitterfly", but most of the album is just soft easy listening.

I agree with a reviewer calling this nice background music. Not being a trained musician I cant appreciate the supposed great arrangements but as a lay listener this is just nice background music. A few tracks were nice, especially In My Dream. I first heard this track on the radio and was committed to buying the album based solely on the one song. Unfortunately for me, In A Dream was by far the pinnacle of this album. Just mediocre IMO.