Johnny Jazz's Review from California Coast Jazz
November, 2004
Beverly Taft's strong suit comes shining through on the up tempo tunes. She has super intonation and the words are clear no matter how fast the song may be.
"The Song Is You" is performed at warp speed and the ensemble rides along in lock step with Taft as she wades through this piece beautifully, turning it into a boppish gem. Johnny Mercer's "I'm An Old Cowhand" is given new treatment with Taft singing the verse and then blazing along in an explosion of "phraseology" that would make Sonny Rollins sit up and take notice..Rollins version can be found on Riverside records (I think). Chris Gale's saxophone solo adds spice to an already potent mix.
"Little Willie Leaps" This tune made be bop history with Charlie Parker's classic version on the Savoy label. I had never heard this tune done as a vocal...Beverly Taft sends this one orbit bound as she swings it hard and fast.
Included in this album are some ballads done with sensitivity and style...but the main
message is creative bop jazz done the old fashioned way....with class and poise.
(5 Stars)
