How To Say Sorry And Other Lessons
Chronograph, 2020
8/10
Listen to How To Say Sorry And Other Lessons
A Canadian vocalist who is well versed in Chinese, French and German, Fawn Fritzen was raised on folk, classical and theater, but here she’s knee deep in jazz- a genre she became fascinated with later in life- where David Restivo accompanies her on piano, and there’s plenty of guests, too.
Fritzen starts the album with a pair of live tracks, where “I Saw The Sun Today” highlights Fritzen’s radiant, soaring vocals alongside warm piano and calm percussion, while “Bittersweet Goodbye” embraces some pop ideas in the romantic jazz setting.
Near the middle, “Kintsugi” offers eloquent wordplay as Fritzen and company birth timeless jazz, while “Gaslight”, a studio track, recruits playful bass from Doug Stephenson and proficient percussion from Tony Ferraro as Melody Diachun and Laura Landsberg contribute backing vocals to the more forceful landscape.
Close to the end, “Show Me Your Heart” displays David Restivo’s piano acrobatics in a gospel friendly version of Fritzen’s vocal jazz prowess, and “Dragonfly” exits the listen with sublime piano balladry as Fritzen’s delicate, expressive pipes leave an indelible mark.
This is Fritzen’s first album of all original material, and it’s an accomplished and varied effort where funk, reggae and swing are also touched on with intimate stories and exceptional delivery from all the talent involved.
Travels well with: Sue Anne Gershenzon- You Must Believe In Spring; Sharon Isbin- Affinity