I have been listening to the new Paula Harris recording, Turning On The Naughty. Paula has a strong vocal style and is surrounded herself with a strong band of musicians including Simon Russell (piano), Mike Eppley (Hammond B3), Nate Ginsberg (organ), Joey Fabian (Bass), Derrick Martin (drums), Al Diaz (percussion), Terry Hiatt (guitars), Steve Gurr (rhythm guitar), Mic Gillette (brass), Tom Politzer (sax) and Tom Poole (trumpet). Paula sings 14 tracks including a number of standards and some originals. The recording has a distinctive styling built for a full orchestra and solo vocalist. On the opening number, A Nick of Too Damn Late, Hiatt ripps a really cool guitar solo. On Touch Of The Blues the horn section is turned up a little and there is a bit of funk added to the mix. On Learn From My Mistakes, Ginsberg lays down some pretty cool organ work. On Just Don't Look Good Naked Anymore, the band falls back to the shuffle and there are a number of interesting instrumental interludes. Baby Love, a rock oriented track has Hiatt again showing his chops on guitar. Some Of My Best Friends Are The Blues is a nice slow blues track, possibly the best track on the recording. Gates Of Hell is another contemporary track with back beat and shows a lot of potential with nice key work from Russell and Martin keeps the band tight. An interesting interpretation of Dust My Broom is included. With a jazzy funky backing, Harris sings the track like I've not heard before. I Play Dirty has a distinctive R&B sound with a touch of New Orleans. This is definitely the track for horn lovers and Politzer blows a nice sax solo. The final track, You Don't Know What Love Is takes a much darker mood with Harris singing in the bottom of her register along with piano. Gillette plays a really nice trumpet solo on this track as well. Overall, the cd is a good mix with a powerful vocalist singing jazz/blues tunes backed buy a strong orchestra. If you like the more serious but sassy side of the blues, with a little tease added in for spice... this may be your ticket.
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ReplyDeleteCool!!