Search - Meredith D'Ambrosio :: Wishing on the Moon

Understatement is a rare quality in jazz singing, which places a premium on dynamism and demonstrative effects. Shirley Horn was understated to the nth degree and so, in her own way, is Meredith d'Ambrosio, a lesser-known veteran of more than 15 albums whose Wishing on the Moon attains a rare state of blissful relaxation. In easy rapport with trumpeter/flugelhornist Don Sickler, who produced the album in addition to providing lyrical solos, and a rhythm section headed by pianist Cecilia Coleman, d'Ambrosio exudes the coolness of past icons such as Chris Connor and the musical dexterity of Sheila Jordan. But she recalls them in a manner that seems almost anti-style in its calm, conversational directness. Her evocative lyrics never strain for meaning, either: "Heaven is ours to claim, maybe you'll feel the same," she sings on "I'll Do It Again," one of 10 originals for which she wrote the words and music (two songs were written with a collaborator). This is mood music of a superior sort, one with romantic stories to tell and reflections aplenty. --Lloyd Sachs