They Say It’s Wonderful
Nica Carrington, 2024
8/10
Listen to They Say It’s Wonderful
The superb vocals of Veronica Thomas illuminate these 12 jazz standards, where John Proulx, Bob Sheppard, Mike Gurrola and Kevin Van Den Elzen are in attendance.
The elegant and warm “Almost In Your Arms” opens with Proulx’s graceful keys complementing Thomas’ smooth voice, and “Get Out Of Town” follows with much beauty radiating from the dreamy piano and Sheppard’s soaring sax prowess.
Moving along, “If I Were A Bell” comes with an infectious energy that benefits from Gurrola’s playful bass, while “Bewitched, Bothered And Bewildered” is a stirring, intimate moment of sublime singing amid gorgeous keys.
Approaching the end, “A Sleepin’ Bee” showcases Elzen’s frisky drumming that suits the lively sax and “Two For The Road” exits with Sheppard handling flute and Proulx contributing vocals to the hazy and touching finish.
An excellent outing of balladry and swingin’ moments, Thomas pulls off a tremendous performance, and the musicians certainly accent her talents in spades.
Travels well with: Tania Grubbs Quintet- The Sound Of Love; Suzanne Pittson- Emerge Dancing