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Carolyn Graye is a veteran vocalist and jazz pianist; however, on her latest release she chooses to
focus on singing and let Jessica Williams tackle the keyboard duties. The result is Songs,
twelve standards that portray Ms. Graye in a favorable light, making intelligent musical decisions
while adding her personal signature to well-known favorites. Highlights include her original lyrics to
Ornette Coleman’s “Turnaround,” a bluer-than-blue “Blue Bossa,” and a cyber twist on the lyrics to
“Everything Happens To Me."
While the vocalist’s mezzo-soprano instrument is not incredibly beautiful or powerful or showy
(think: American Idol), it is controlled, consistently in tune and capable of great moments, such as
the warm, focused vibrato that propels the final chorus of “That’s All.” Rather than drown a song with
flash and embellishments as younger, less experienced singers are apt to do, Graye trusts the
lyric, piano and voice to create music greater than the some of its parts.
It’s my guess that Williams – as dominant a force as can be found in modern jazz, and one who
rarely assumes the role of accompanist – appreciates the subtleties in Graye’s approach.
Rather than battle for superiority, the duo run through Songs on equal footing, resolved to
journey where the music takes them.
Visit Carolyn Graye on the web.
This review first appeared in All About Jazz:
Seattle.
~ Jason West
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Track Listing: 1. That’s All 4:25,
2. Blue Bossa 5:12,
3. Up Jumped Spring 4:10,
4. Alone Together 4:59,
5. If You Could See Me Now 5:08,
6. Do Nothing Til You Hear From Me 4:12,
7. Everything Happens To Me 4:59,
8. Get Outa Town 5:42,
9. We’ll Be Together Again 7:32,
10. Turnaround 4:39.
Personnel: Carolyn Graye: voice, Jessica Williams: piano.
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