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Jessica Molaskey -
Sitting In Limbo (PS Classics)
Released: May 22, 2007
Ms. Molaskey writes in the
liner notes that the album's title comes from "...life's little joke
that we are so often stuck in the act of trying to 'figure it out' -
whatever 'it' is," and goes on to explain that this is different than
knowing there's no chance at all.
Ms. Molaskey's voice has an ability to
maintain sweet optimism in the midst of melancholy lyrics - and make you
believe that somewhere in the machinery of the cosmos, the little cog
can slip over to the side that spits out a positive outcome.
My favorite tracks included Sting's "Heavy Cloud, No Rain," along with a
heartbreaking "There Will Never Be Another You." The medley "The Circle
Game/Waters of March," performed with husband John Pizzarelli - who also
plays guitar on the recording - deserves lots of "Smooth Jazz" airplay.
It's seamless, and Harry Allen's sax solo is a nice finishing touch.
Ms. Molaskey and Mr. Pizzarelli together - well.
Go read what others
have written about the chemistry, but everything that's been written is
correct. The chemistry is there, it's palpable, and it's a real treat to watch
and listen to.
The backing combo is filled out with Mr. Pizzarelli's uncle, Martin, on
bass; Larry Goldings and Larry Fuller on keyboards, and Tony Tedesco on
drums.
No tracks to skip, this disc is a gem.
Message to singers - aspiring or otherwise - with theatre in their
background: Ms. Molaskey gets it. Listen and learn. You don't need to
sing to the balcony on recordings; you're right there in front of us.
What you need to do is learn to give meaning to the lyrics without
shouting.
Go kick down the door of your corner record store or iTune this one
first thing on Tuesday.
Highest Recommendation.
Four microphones (out of four)
- Doug Boynton
(05/20/07) |
