Musicians: Melani Skybell (vocals, piano), Sam Walker (guitar), Roy Snodgrass (drums), Pete Brewer (saxophone), Jorge Ginorio (percussion), Steve Browne (flugel horn)
Tracks: Just A Chase Away, Days Like This, Let's Get Away, Got You On My Mind, The Stars In Your Eyes, Dreamflight, It Could Happen To You, Simple Life Worth Living, The First Time I Saw You
Biography: Melani Skybell is a vocalist and classically trained pianist, performing either solo or with her group. Her education includes piano performance studies from Boston Universtiy to the prestigious jazz department of University of North Texas College of Music. Melani has performed at all of the top venues in Dallas, and continues to be a regular at the Four Seasons Resort, while often playing for sold out rooms - not an easy task in a city dominated by C&W and Rock.
Melani's repertoire includes traditional jazz standards, sultry ballads, Latin rhythms, and her original jazz to pop compositions. Melani has appeared on several local tevlevision spots, and is in demand outside of Dallas, as she has performed at events in Atlanta, Georgia, Jamaica, and the Chautauqua Institute of New York, to name a few.
Melani combines her sensual style and compelling interpretations with respect for the tradition of classic jazz. Her first release, "Through the Years," is in its third printing, and her second release, "My Heart Sings," has continued to sell well, maintaining international distribution. VH1 bought the rights to one of her tracks, "Papa Love Mambo," which was used for the soundtrack of their movie, "30 Days Until I'm Famous." Her 3rd CD, "Life Is The Song," has received rave reviews, "...Skybell's most intimate recording to date." Her new CD, "Just A Chase Away," features 8 of her original compositions, with soulful lyrics, polished production and arrangements. Yet, her sound is unforced and maintains that effortless style. The jazz critics are applauding this CD as "magical, divine piano and sensual vocals, and exceptional..." just to name a few.
Melani Skybell is an independent artist that exudes the qualities and crossover appeal of major label talent. She is not only an engaging singer/pianist with a unique voice and style, she also projects such personal warmth, sincerity, and positive energy that audiences take an instant liking to her. Melani's latest offering will draw you in closer to the core of her essence and abilities, as a true addition to any jazz collection.
JazzReview.com
