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  | NORMA WINSTONE / WILL BARTLETT ~ THE SOUNDLESS DARK
JELLYMOULDJAZZ 034 (Barcode: 5029385864279) ~ UK ~ Jazz & Poetry
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022
This is a duo album by British vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and pianist Will BartlettFind albums by this artist, dedicated to the poetry of British poet / novelist Philip LarkinFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, nine of which were composed by Bartlett and one by Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist. All the lyrics are by Larkin. Saxophonist Tony KofiFind albums by this artist and narrator Robin InceFind albums by this artist guest each on three tracks.
Every recording by Norma Winstone is of course heaven on earth as far as I am concerned, and since this is also a Jazz & Poetry project, I am double biased. But in truth, considering Norma’s status on the British Jazz scene and her recorded legacy, this is hardly surprising. She is, after all, the First Lady of the genre and has absolutely no equals as far as intelligent and aesthetic approach to vocals is concerned. She does not have to prove anything anymore, which allows her to engage in projects that are close to her heart, and since she has an impeccable taste and unequalled talent, she just can’t go wrong, as this album proves once again.
This intimate project requires, as usual, attentive listening, as the music, although quite melodic, is far from being simple, and the poetry is often challenging as well. Despite the controversy surrounding Larkin’s persona and his ideology, on this album he emerges a lost romantic, more than anything else. The music is all perfect for the selected texts and Norma’s delivery is nothing short of Divine, again not surprisingly.
Overall, it is absolutely enthralling to hear Norma in superb form, as if the passing time existed in another dimension. This album is a sublime addition to her outstanding recorded legacy and an essential listening. Thank you, my Dear, for being who you are and for proving that life is worth living!
| | Updated: 17/11/2023Posted: 17/11/2023 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
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