Spooky Jazz Vol. 2
Turtle Bay, 2024
8/10
The esteemed vocalist Hannah Gill returns with a theme of autumn music, where 11 eerie songs welcome many esteemed players.
“I’d Rather Be Burned As A Witch” begins the album with haunting ambience, as spoken word leads into nostalgic fun thanks to Ricky Alexander’s upbeat clarinet and Ben Zweig’s frisky drums, and “My Man’s An Undertaker” follows with Gordon Webster’s playful piano and Mike Davis’ lively trumpet adding much to Gill’s fluid voice.
Closer to the middle, “Hummin’ To Myself” is a calmer moment that benefits from Philip Ambuel’s precise bass and, of course, Gill’s distinct pipes, while “Oogie Boogie’s Song” mixes talking, singing and howling with Justin Poindexter’s well timed guitar.
“That Old Black Magic” resides near the end, and is a rhythmic, stylish album highlight that’s dance floor ready, and “Shine On Harvest Moon” exits with harmonic singing, bass plucking and radiant guitar that’s complemented by the lush clarinet.
The sequel to a digital EP that began during the pandemic, the humor, ambience and no lack of grooves makes this retro affair an enjoyable listen all year round.
Travels well with: Hannah Gill- Everyone Loves A Lover; Cathy Segal-Garcia- Social Anthems Volume 2