Search - Jeannette d'armand :: Stage Road

A dynamite debut!

JetPak | Portland, OR USA | 12/02/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A wonderful first CD from a terrifically talented singer. Ms. d'Armand has a vocal range that is both pleasant and delightful. I found myself listening to several cuts over and over,... like the great Gordon Jenkins tune "Ev'ry Time" and Joni Mitchell's "Cactus Tree". The arrangements are top notch, as is the whole production. Having lost someone in my life all too soon, I found myself tearfully enjoying "Like a shiver" by Charles Baker. More over, this whole CD of classic modern music is to be savored. I love it that she has picked songs that haven't had as much sunlight. Most other singers tend to pick the same songs over and over. It's really nice to hear something completely different. I eagerly await the next collection of gems interpreted by Jeanette d'Armand."

Crystalline

Art Petersen | Juneau, AK USA | 01/14/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I read a positive review of this new CD in our newspaper, and friends strongly recommended it. So I couldn't help but have high expectations, which in my experience have been a sign of disappointment to come. However, Jeannette d'Armand's CD exceeded my expectations. If a crystal bell could sing, it might sound like Jeannette. There are moments of such pristine quality that are quite remarkable--as clean and pure as the ring of a crystal bell. I enjoy Cole Porter, Rodgers and Hart, and Johnny Mercer standards, over and over and over, but all of the songs on STAGE ROAD are new or barely familiar to me. They're becoming familiar friends, though, because the CD invites return listening. The pristine quality, tone, and strength of Jeannette's voice are highly pleasing, over and over, and so are the inventive arrangements. The "bonus track" of Jeanne Merrill, the singer's grandmother, although from a scratchy historical recording from long bygone WOR radio, is not just interesting and of exceptional quality; it is also touching that the artist should choose to honor Miss Merrill by sharing her fine singing with us. ... This CD definitely gains my 5-star recommendation."

What's not to like?

Carl Ross | Fargo, ND USA | 12/24/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Stage Road" is a path along which everyone ought to saunter aurally. The fascinating variety of instrumentation, from alto flute to muted trumpet, is ingeniously chosen, and each unique timbre is used with uncanny restraint, almost atomized, leaving the listener wanting more of each. What jazz vocalist wouldn't drool at the opportunity to have Manhattan Transfer back-up singers?! The variety which characterizes this recording extends to the choice of repertoire, and each song is arranged masterfully. Uniting the various appealing elements is the supreme artistry of Jeannette d'Armand and every one of her supporters. I'm searching for a superlative adjective for this album. How about "super", "superlative", or "superb"? They all apply. Lend an ear to this exciting, refreshing, and moving CD, and you'll know why!"