Musicians: Cris Barber (vocals),Karen Hammack (piano), Doug Webb (sax), Kurt Rasmussen (percussion), Barry Cogert (bass),Aldo Bentivenga (drums)
Review:
For an artist to come full circle in range with rhythmic vocals along with flawless precision in a single cut is special. Thus describes the craft of Cris Barber as for the third time this artist has released a smooth and genuinely exquisite production titled Comes Love. Feminine is the performance, her tones rich and expressions that carry a true cool mystique.
Co-produced with Ryan Hafer the arrangements are without noticeable flaws. The compilations of selections suit the vocalist’s talents, thus enhancing the presentation we are subject to as listeners. Ms. Barber’s feedback after the curtain has drawn on this project should bring numerous cries of encore!
Upbeat and injected with a special groove is “O Pato.” Pianist Karen Hammack truly adds an energetic tempo down the keys on this piece. The ivory solo is by definition…smooth!
Oh how subtle is the sensual approach of “Teach Me Tonight” as Ms Barber captures the temptress’s nocturnal request. The mix of instrumental and vocals just sets the heated mood soon to approach… An excellent addition to this spin!
If you favor the feminine style of vocalizing then this spin will turn your head. “Comes Love” succeeds in 2005, then Comes More...in 2006!
Karl Stober is an international freelance columnist and broadcaster who can be reached at jazztrenzz@bellsouth.net.
Tracks: East of the Sun, Better Than Anything, Comes Love, O Pato, You Go To My Head, Exactly Like You, Hello, Haven't I Seen You Before, Just A Little Lovin', Teach Me Tonight, Dindi, You Taught My Heart To Sing, Louisiana Sunday Afternoon
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