Record Reviews

NORMA WINSTONE / MONA LARSEN ~ FREEDOM JAZZ DANCE 3361*BLACK 1016 (Barcode: 4988041007980) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995 This is a criminally little known album by the vocal duo of British Jazz Diva Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and Danish Jazz vocalist Mona LarsenFind albums by this artist. They are accompanied by American (resident in Paris when this album was recorded) pianist Jeff GardnerFind albums by this artist, French (of Algerian origin) bassist Michel BenitaFind albums by this artist and British (also resident in Paris) drummer Steve ArguellesFind albums by this artist. The album, recorded in Paris, presents eight tracks, all Jazz standards, one with lyrics written by Winstone. The album’s focus is on the sublime vocal performances by the duo, which uses the entire available vocal toolbox, which includes singing lyrics, scatting, vocalizing, and more, which the two vocalists perform together in perfect harmony and sync. The accompaniment is very subdued and delicate, as appropriate for the occasion, but perfectly executed. Benita is absolutely brilliant as a collaborator to the vocal parts and is often left alone with the singers, but the piano trio is also head more prominently on some of the tracks. As far as the vocals are concerned, this album is a beautiful example of what modern Jazz vocals are all about and a classic schoolbook example of how they should be treated. The range of the various vocal techniques and collaborative vocal exchanges are simply phenomenal. It took me ages to find a copy of this album, released only in Japan on an obscure Japanese label, but persistence and patience paid up big time, as this is definitely one of the best vocal Jazz album ever, and I have heard a few of those over the years. Simply brilliant and absolutely essential listening!

Updated: 20/06/2021Posted: 20/06/2021

CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend