CD Review: New York Voices: Live with the WDR Big Band Cologne

(Review by David Brownlow)

A live recording from 2008 by the New York Voices, a Grammy Award winning vocal group celebrating its 25^th anniversary, accompanied by the world–class WDR Big Band Cologne led by arranger/conductor Michael Abene. The singers – Kim Nazarian, Lauren Kinhan, Darmon Meader and Peter Eldridge – have been influenced by some of the great jazz vocal groups such as Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, Manhattan Transfer, the Hi-Los and Singers Unlimited although they have their own individual style.
An entertaining album that captures the energy and excitement of a live event through a wide range of material ranging from hard-swinging big-band romps; e.g. Love Me or Leave Me, touching ballads such as I Do It For Your Love and contemporary pop songs including Annie Lennox’s Cold. The Voices have perfected the art of jazz group singing – at times, the four voices interweave seamlessly and at others the vocal blend is exquisite. The improvised scat solos are confident and apt, reminding one of  Mel Torme, Jon Hendricks or Ella at their peaks.

Mike Abene’s fresh, innovative arrangements show off the WDR Band at its best with challenging parts for all sections. An interesting variation is when The Voices become another section integrated within the Band ; i.e. brass, reeds, rhythm and voices. Also, at other times, The Voices “comp” for colleagues and instrumental solos from within the band.

The disc is full of good jazz virtues – swing, excitement, wit, surprise, musicality, touching moments and, needless to say, the highest of standards all round – including the sound engineers who captured the balance of voices and instruments perfectly.

Thoroughly recommended - a “5 Star” CD or Download is now available from Palmetto Records.

Dave Brownlow.