30 Aug
Paradise Cafe 2am by Barry Manilow
- Written by Brian White
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An unlikely addition to a jazz site, but nonetheless Barry Manilow's inclusion is well merited. A long standing jazz lover, this album is possibly more important to Mr Manilow than his regular audience and was a considerable departure for him. The tracks merge seamlessly together with clever links to maintain the smoky, late night atmosphere. "Blue Like Me", a gorgeous duet with Sarah Vaughan, and "When October Goes" which combines one of Johnny Mercer's most poignant lyrics with a superbly appropriate Manilow melody, are worth the price of this record alone. Gerry Mulligan seems to be the cohesive force here, with fluid and romantic lines emphasizing the disillusioned, world weary quality of the songs. Mundell Lowe's understated guitar couples with Manne and Duvivier in gently propelling the whole ensemble gently forwards, with Mel Torme adding a terrific cameo on "Big City Blues". Highly recommended.
Additional Info
- Artist / Group Name: Barry Manilow
- CD Title: Paradise Cafe 2am
- Genre: Jazz Vocals
- Year Released: 1998
- Record Label: Unknown
- Musicians: Barry Manilow & Billy Mays (piano), Gerry Mulligan (baritone sax), George DuVivier (bass), Mundell Lowe (guitar), Shelley Manne (drums). Barry Manilow, Sarah Vaughan, Mel Torme (vocals).
- Label Website: -
- Rating: Five Stars
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Jazz Vocals - CD Reviews
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