Customer Reviews

Make Someone Happy

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Not only is this one of the best jazz vocal debut albums of 1998, it is simply one of the best jazz vocal albums of 1998. Johnson has a pure, expressive voice which combines the control and understatement of Irene Kral with the sense of drama and swing of Carmen McRae. The incomparable Fred Hersch is along to produce and play some piano. Not only does Kelley shine on ballads--note especially the little-done "I Haven't Got Anything Better to Do"--but she can swing and scat with great taste--check out "Stompin' at the Savoy." Yes, we've lost some of the great jazz singers in recent years, but with singers like Kelley Johnson appearing on the scene, fans of good jazz singing need not despair.

Ms. Johnson as a strong, clear, pure voice, probably described as an alto. She is the most straight forward "jazz singer" I have heard since listening to Tierney Sutton (who is a text book example). Ms. Johnson alwasys seems to be in charge of what she is singing, demonstrating confidence in her singing, and mastery of her musical material. While I prefer the faster paced selections on this recording, especially "Stompin' at the Savoy" and "September in the Rain", Ms. Johnson does a wonderful job with ballads and other slow toons (my favorite of the slow stuff is Ellington's "Solitude"). The accompanying musicians are all top flight, straight ahead jazz artists as well, and the match with Ms. Johnson sounds right on. The recording sounds very natural, and "audiophiles" will be pleased with how well their equipment reproduces music while playing this disc. I look forward to another recorded effort from Kelley Johnson soon, preferably with a few more up-tempo songs. Highly recommended for those who like REAL jazz vocalists.

Not a wasted note or sound. Simple, clear and concise, tone-perfect singing. Excellent players, as well. Just a wonderfully tight "traditional school" jazz album.

I remember hearing "September in the Rain" when I was studying one night and I just stopped, something inside of me said, "just enjoy this voice, this melodie." I commonly associate Ms. Johnson with September now and I probably always will. Her voice just has this striking originality that will engage you. So listen to this joy and enjoy the moments. Take care