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Stevie
Holland -
More Than Words Can Say (150 Music)
To be
Released: May 30, 2006
Yikes.
The first track on this disc is the old chestnut, "Only You."
Halfway through, I took the disc out of the computer and ran upstairs to
the living room. I wanted to hear this on the good speakers. The Big
speakers. I wanted to be able to turn it up loud.
There will now be a short pause. I'll wait while you
Google "Stevie Holland."
(Musical interlude. This, by the way, is good music.)
Okay. What did you learn? Journeyman (journeyperson?) on the New York
cabaret circuit. Or that "...Stevie grew up in a music-filled,
Norwegian-Italian household in Westchester County, New York." Or how about
"Her steady arranger and songwriting partner for the past several years
has been (some say award-winning) composer Gary William Friedman." You may
have also learned that he's her husband, as well has the co-producer of
this disc. Why do they never just say that in the liner notes?
Blah, blah, blah. They're only words. This is very good
music.
Simply make sure this disc
finds its way to your collection.
I have never heard a voice this powerful with this much range and - well,
on the ballads, Ms. Holland's voice is sensitive and downright sweet. The
combo is not simply backing her - she's an integral part of the total
package. My wife, who's done a turn or two as a professional singer, says
it best. "Anybody can belt 'em. But to have that much range, and do the
ballads like that, too - she's very, very good."
Yes.
And I suppose that's where all
of this is really going. She's really very, very good.
Kind words as well for Martin Bejerano and Kris Davis on piano and Ole
Mathisen on Sax. Good job, guys.
"Only You" is a fine opener for this set. "'Murder,' He says" is a
question of timing, and Ms. Holland delivers. And the original "More Than
Words Can Say" is simply outstanding.
I'm fumbling a bit, because "more than words can say" is a perfect way to
describe Ms. Holland's voice.
You must hear this. Very highly recommended.
 
Three
and one-half microphones (out of four)
- Doug Boynton
(04/23/06) |
