Chicago's Hippest Treasure
Samuel Chell | Kenosha,, WI United States | 08/20/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It's a darn shame that to the degree the public at large becomes interested in female jazz singers it's the sultry, low-register, Julie London-sound-alikes who appear to be getting all of the attention these days. But besides the deeper warblers like Diana Krall and Pat Barber, there are higher-pitched voices like those belonging to Dena DeRose and Eden Atwood, and before them there was Judy Roberts. Think of her as a Blossom Dearie with edge--whatever, she's always been and remains one of the smartest, sexiest, hippest stylists on the planet. Not only does she command the American Songbook but she performs definitive vocalizations of instrumental hits like "Senor Blues" and, on this recording, "Take Five."Were she "merely" a pianist, Judy would warrant recording, as she's a major league player (when I first met her, she was being escorted by a Chicago Cub!). She can play Bud Powell lines, create Bill Evans voicings, and swing as hard as any of her counterparts amongst the less gentle sex.The album also features, on every track, scintillating tenor solos (evoking late Stan Getz) and flute work by one of Chicago's best, Greg Fishman. (Dig the incredible interplay between piano and sax on "Scrapple," with drums and bass dropping out altogether.) In short, this recording is a gem, certain to please the listener who prefers vocals to instrumentals, instrumentals to vocals, or equally strong doses of both."
Judy Roberts Deserves More Recognition
Samuel Chell | 04/29/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I love Judy Roberts and think this is a very, very good album. But, comparing the saxophonist to late Stan Getz only means you don't have any idea what Stan Getz sounded like. That said, Judy is a great talent - and I anxiously await her next release. Go hear her in person if you ever have the chance, you won't regret it."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1
