Denise Montana - In My Life - COMPACT DISCS [CD]

Talea Ensemble - Anamorphosis [COMPACT DISCS] date 07/31/2012

Monnette Sudler - In My Own Way [COMPACT DISCS] date 01/01/2021

State of the Art is not only singer Dee Daniel's debut leader date for Criss Cross, but the tag's first-ever by a vocalist after three decades and hundreds of recordings by Jazz' best and brightest. It's a worthy addition-the Seattle-born vocalist, who sang two numbers on Wycliffe Gordon's recent Criss Cross date the intimate Ellington, brings her richly textured multi-octave voice, instrumentally-flexible phrasing, and keen interpretative abilities to a program comprising 13 gems from various corners of the American Songbook. Enhancing the swinging, soulful, old-master flavor and 21st century feel are tenor saxophonist Eric Alexander, who contributes apropos testifying solos and obligatos throughout, and a synchronously grooving rhythm section with pianist Cyrus Chestnut, bassist Paul Beaudry, and drummer Alvester Garnett.