Lionel Hampton nicknamed her "Betty Bebop" way back when--and the soul of bebop was alive and kickin' in Betty Carter when this 1993 live set was recorded at London's Royal Festival Hall. It's a kind of dream date, with ... more » Carter accompanied by pianist Gerri Allen, bassist Dave Holland, and drummer Jack DeJohnnette. So what I want to say is: "Wow." I guess that's not a very articulate critical observation, but as Carter (a sizzling scat singer) knows, sometimes words just aren't enough to say what needs to be expressed. Some jazz singers (like Billie Holiday or Shirley Horn) don't stray too far from the melody in their improvisations, but Carter takes off and flies like the great bebop sax/horn players. The arrangements on these 10 songs sometimes deliberately downplay the melodies--like a mysteriously beautiful "Lover Man" that Billie Holiday would never recognize. Slowed almost to a standstill and built around a piano figure that echoes Herbie Hancock's "Maiden Voyage," the words are familiar, but the tune is almost undetectable. Carter's up to something else altogether, and makes spine- tingling music. --Jim Emerson« less
Lionel Hampton nicknamed her "Betty Bebop" way back when--and the soul of bebop was alive and kickin' in Betty Carter when this 1993 live set was recorded at London's Royal Festival Hall. It's a kind of dream date, with Carter accompanied by pianist Gerri Allen, bassist Dave Holland, and drummer Jack DeJohnnette. So what I want to say is: "Wow." I guess that's not a very articulate critical observation, but as Carter (a sizzling scat singer) knows, sometimes words just aren't enough to say what needs to be expressed. Some jazz singers (like Billie Holiday or Shirley Horn) don't stray too far from the melody in their improvisations, but Carter takes off and flies like the great bebop sax/horn players. The arrangements on these 10 songs sometimes deliberately downplay the melodies--like a mysteriously beautiful "Lover Man" that Billie Holiday would never recognize. Slowed almost to a standstill and built around a piano figure that echoes Herbie Hancock's "Maiden Voyage," the words are familiar, but the tune is almost undetectable. Carter's up to something else altogether, and makes spine- tingling music. --Jim Emerson
"you've got here the best example of what a jazz cd should be according to me : diversity, hits, complexity, deconstruction, exploration, swing, Music, Musicians... "Feed the Fire" is to Betty Carter what Sassy Swings the Tivoli is to Sarah vaughan or what Ella In Berlin is to Ella Fitzgerald. This is her masterpiece (no surprise that this cd is out of stock, everybody wanted it, but what is Verve waiting for to reissue it????I ve only got a used cassette-tape- of the concert).... Please note that you've got a spectacular second set with high level duets (Jack DeJohnette/ Betty, Geri Allen / Betty and impressive Dave Holland with my favorite female ! As soon as it is reissued, don't wait! Go for it !"
"Between the snap and pop of Jack DeJohnette's drums, the rich foundation of Dave Holland on bass, and Geri Allen's haunting piano geometries, Betty Carter emerges alive, vivid, and enthralling. The energy of this record is overwhelming and delicious -- an under-appreciated masterpiece."
Jazz at its very best
Kilchomin | WI USA | 12/01/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Superb album -- worth it at any price -- superb performances by all concerned -- hard driving, lyrical when needed as only Carter can do, brilliant improvisation."
On fire
Kilchomin | 03/31/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Energy and intelligence pour out of this record, as Betty works with a sharp little group -- including Jack De Johnette and Geri Allen -- that knows how to listen and react. She's feeling great and this record will do the same for you. Put it on while you're working and feel the Mozart effect."