"The album has a marvellous low-slung groove on songs by an ecelectic list of songwriters - Bill Evans, Rodgers & Hart, Cannonball Adderley, Miles Davis, Jerome Kern and Viv Rodd and Kris themeselves. Kris is a vocalist of great character and the album features some of the best jazz musicians in the South West region.
REVIEWS & TESTIMONIALS
"I have now listened to this CD on several occasions and every time it finishes I feel like applauding. The new album is a tour de force and Cornwall is indeed lucky to have as a resident such a fine jazz singer."
JAZZ CD OF THE WEEK “ LONDON EVENING STANDARD 06/06/08 KRIS GAYLE8.00am (Big Milk Music)**** (4 stars out of 5) Never assume that London monopolises British jazz talent, especially with sounds as sophisticated as these arriving from funky Falmouth. Startled by the opening track, Blue in Green, I searched for the likes of George Duke, Stanley Clarke or Nancy Wilson among the credits, finding instead local heroes such as keyboarder/arranger Viv Rodd, drummer/bass guitarist/producer Damian Rodd and singer Kris Gayle. Her vocal interpretations of All Blues, Im All Smiles and It Never Entered My Mind are simply top-class. Luscious brass arrangements and expert sound-mixing add further Cornish cream to this unexpected treat.JACK MASSARIK
Johanna Graham Quartet - “Don't Let Me Be Lonely”
allaboutjazz.com
Years back, there was a fascinating self-help book entitled The Road Less Traveled (Simon and Schuster, 1978) by psychiatrist, M. Scott Peck. The premise of that long-time #1 best-selling effort was simple: in Life sometimes making a riskier choice—where the unknown awaits—can be the most rewarding. Perhaps taking Peck's suggested advice, Don't Let Me Be Lonely by British vocalist Johanna Graham takes a right turn at a musical crossroads and, for the most part, the result is a musically satisfying journey.
The recording offers up eleven interestingly presented selections wherein the vocalist—she from Cornwall-By the Sea—and her session mates make an auspicious splash. It is a noteworthy debut recording.
Graham's vocal approach across the date is intriguing and approachable. She possesses a fine voice that tends to shine on the more energetic pieces. Her intonation is spot on and her rhythmic nuance is ideal. Her vibrato is fast—Eartha Kitt rapid—and when engaged, detracts somewhat from the beauty of her overall sonority. Her dynamic shadings are interesting and not extreme in either direction. Based on this recording, it's obvious that this is a vocalist with some intriguing potential.
There are three well-worn GAS classics on the date ("Stormy Weather," "Summertime," "I'm Through With Love") and Graham performs them well. However, her star shines brighter on the more unusual efforts. For example, a neat rendition—and a terrific production choice—of The Doors' "People Are Strange," is turned inside-out as up-tempo swing and is a perfect vehicle for Graham's interpretative skills. It is indicative of her apparent unique ability to choose wisely and make things happen with fare more well-known in another genre. Kate Bush's "The Man with the Child in His Eyes" also gets the faster take, however, doesn't seem to work as well at the faster tempo.
The piano-less supporting cast are all top-flight players and frame Graham exceptionally well. They swing heavy. Guitarist Martin Bowie sends up some tasty solos ("Don't Let Me Lonely Tonight") as does trumpeter Rory Simmons ("Too Much"). Bassist Tim Greenhalgh and drummer Damian Rodd drive the band exceedingly well.
All things considered, Don't Let Me Be Lonely is an enjoyable introduction to an emerging vocal talent. So, when the musical crossroads choice appears, turn right here.
Track Listing: The Man with the Child in His Eyes; Funny Not Much; I Will; Too Much; I'm Through with Love; Don't Let Me Be Lonely; People Are Strange; Empty Serenade; When Sunny Gets Blue; Stormy Weather; Summertime.
Personnel: Johanna Graham: vocals; Martin Bowie: guitar; Tim Greenhalgh: bass; Damian Rodd: drums; Rory Simmons: trumpet.
Nicholas F Mondello