Jazz / Contemporary Jazz, Standards, Vocal Jazz
Andy Martin Trombone
Bob Barry Photography
Bob Maize Bass
Bruce Forman Guitar
Doug Ramsey Liner Notes
Kathy Brown Cover Photo
Luther Hughes Bass
Paul Kreibich Percussion, Drums
Sam Most Flute
Steve Crimmel Engineer
In too many fields of music the focus is upon young up-and-coming performers, but given the opportunity, seasoned jazz fans will likely prefer to listen to a veteran vocalist like Sandi Shoemake. Her rich voice and superb diction make one wish that she recorded more frequently. Backed by an excellent band with delightful arrangements by her husband, vibraphonist Charlie Shoemake (who also plays piano in spots), she primarily chose songs that were written for Broadway or Hollywood, few of which seem to be done with any regularity by her contemporaries. She masters the sly humor within "A Rainy Night in Rio," a perky bossa nova dating from the 1940s that showcases flutist Sam Most and trombonist Andy Martin. Shoemake savors the deliberate settings of neglected ballads like Rodgers & Hart's "Nobody's Heart" and Frank Loesser's "Can't Get Out of This Mood." She also offers swinging takes of "I Only Have Eyes for You" and "By Myself" (the latter featuring bassist Bob Maize in one of his last recordings prior to his death in 2004). Guitarist Bruce Forman, bassist Luther Hughes, and drummer Paul Kreibich round out the strong supporting cast on this rewarding CD. ~ Ken Dryden, All Music Guide |
