Isn’t It Romantic?
Arden House, 2022
8/10
An artist with a long list of accomplishments, Judy Whitmore’s work as a jazz and cabaret performer, novelist, producer, therapist and commercial jet pilot is nothing short of admirable. Here, we’re talking about her voice, where a dozens standards are fleshed out with an excellent backing band.
“It Could Happen To You” starts the listen with Tamir Hendelman’s warm piano alongside Whitmore’s soothing pipes amid much melody, and “I Remember You” follows with Lori Bell’s dreamy flute adding that much more beauty to the elegant and lush climate.
Elsewhere, “The Nearness Of You” benefits much from Rickey Woodward’s soulful brass and Alex Frank’s well timed bass in the intimate display, while “The Birth Of The Blues” recruits Peisha McPhee’s stunning voice that harmonizes with Whitmore across the powerful album highlight.
Near to the end, the reflective brass of “But Beautiful” gets a bit playful with the meticulous bass plucking as Whitmore’s diverse singing makes an impression, and “Hallelujah I Love Him So” finishes with an upbeat delivery that’s populated by a cozy rhythm section, bright horns, and, of course, Whitmore’s glowing pipes that are heartfelt and adventurous.
An album that swings playfully but can also retreat to stirring balladry, Whitmore steers through the timeless songs with her buttery smooth voice and much poise.
Travels well with: Ada Bird Wolfe- Odd Bird; Vicki Burns- Lotus Blossom Days