Search - Eden Atwood :: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Still a comer.

Samuel Chell | Kenosha,, WI United States | 06/21/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"In the arena of jazz singing, there are many pretenders but few genuine gladiators. The jazz vocalist is a naked, vulnerable object under a merciless microscope with no patience for musical contrivance or errant tones.I caught Eden about 10 years ago on a big-band gig where her sense of swing, infectious energy, and statuesque beauty succeeded in animating the tattered, tired stock arrangements as well as the cavernous space of the Hiatt ballroom. It was no surprise to hear of her subsequent success as a singer-model-actress.Which brings me to this recording, the only one I've heard from Eden. It displays the swing, energy, and formidable 3-octave range I remember from that dance job. But it also exposes some vocal weaknesses that one can only hope have been addressed since the recording date or will be in the near future. Eden's vocal challenges are to be found in the middle register, where her voice lacks natural "body," forcing her to compensate with re-shaped vowel sounds and constantly changing projection technique. The worst (yet easiest) thing for Eden would be for her to allow her career to get ahead of her or, as a jazz singer, to get caught up in the contrived elocution of much stage singing. She has the musical background and instincts that most aspiring jazz singers lack. With the right kind of coaching, she can yet achieve consistency of tone and diction. As it is, there are plenty of moments on this recording, especially "I'm Glad There's You," that show the markings of a commanding interpreter of The American Songbook."

Gorgeous... Everything about Eden is gorgeous

Samuel Chell | 07/20/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you ever got the opportunity to see Eden perform in person, you are truly blessed. Her musical talent is unrelenting in it's ability to capture you and not let go!!! Once you put her CD's in your player, you're not going to want to pull them out for a long, long time! From her hauntingly beautiful ballads, to her fun style with songs like, "Everything I've Got Belongs To You", I haven't spent a Sunday morning without her!!!Eden, we miss you in Chi-town!!! Keep singing... Please!!!"