I wanted so badly to give a five
Avid Reader | Franklin, Tn | 10/22/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"But I just couldn't. And I'm not blaming it all on the fabulous Ms Monheit either. The sound of the album was weird. As someone noted, in places it sounded "tinny". Then there is the matter of song selection - lots of repeats and even a few mediocore.
All the great female singlers alternate between the worlds of jazz and ballad. I prefer the latter, particularly the romantic lush type but love the jazz also. While she does not have the name and fame of Kraal and is not totally in control like the incredible Cheryl Bentyne or is at the point of her career where she is willing to take chances like the fantastic Tierney Sutton (the best in the business, hands down) she is making a name for herself. What really burns me up are comments like she "uses her looks" or is "just another pretty face." Is beauty now a crime?
Unlike a famous tennis star, Jane combines talent with a young flippancy, playfulness and spirit that's refreshing. Some of the songs are in Portuguese - and the point is? She worked with Ivan Lins and for sheer sound, few approach the almost classical arrangement of "Comecar de Novo" whose words do NOT tranlate well to English. All female singers do not have to sound the same. I, for one, am grateful for the variety among the voices. Next time though, I would like something more daring,even with edge. Or even better, a collection of only torch songs and ballads - let the purist howl!"
This is more like it
John A Lee III | San Antonio, TX | 06/11/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This album replicates a lot of material on the "Live at the Rainbow Room" album but is, in my mind, so much better. These are not live but studio recordings and they are first rate.
These selections are mostly in the torch song tradition. There are a few happier selections to round out the collection. All are well done in terms of singing, arrangement, mix and accompaniment.
I'm waiting for the next release.
"