Long As You’re Living
Tritone, 2024
8/10
Listen to Long As You’re Living
The jazz vocalist Lisa Rich returns after a lengthy break from music, where the songs touch on the many trials and tribulations that she’s sorted through to flesh out these 12 timeless tracks.
The title track opens with Marc Copland’s warm piano and Drew Gress’ bouncy bass, as Rich’s lively pipes enter the playful delivery, and “Throw It Away” follows with meticulous bass plucking and emotive keys that suit the colorful singing.
Close to the middle, “Lonely Woman” allows for Rich’s gorgeous voice to shine amid the gentle keys, while “Jitterbug Waltz” brings in Dave Ballou’s well timed trumpet for the soulful album highlight.
Deeper still, “Bye Bye Blackbird” recruits scatting and Ballou’s animated horn for the rich climate, and “Hyperchance/Drifting Dreaming (Gymnopedie 1)” exits with a thoughtful, indeed dreamy finish of engaging and moving jazz.
Rich was headfirst into a significant career in the '‘80s when illness struck. With the help and encouragement of the late Jay Clayton, she makes a triumphant return here, where her smoky voice and genuine and heartfelt vision is much appreciated.
Travels well with: Jo Harrop- The Path Of A Tear; Veronica Thomas- They Say It’s Wonderful