nothin’ better to do…
bry-mar, 2026
8/10
Listen to nothing’ better to do…
The Los Angeles vocalist Betty Bryant has been a staple in the jazz scene since the ‘50s, and this 15th album treats us to 3 originals and 6 tunes that you may not be familiar with before, but certainly will be after.
“You Are Not My First Love” starts the listen with Bryant’s expressive voice alongside Richard Simon’s playfully plucked bass and Robert Kyle’ bright sax, and “I Can See You Lookin’” follows with Bryant’s warm keys amid Kevin Winard’s light drums.
In the middle, “I Haven’t Got Anything Better To Do” welcomes Niall Taro’s elegant cello that complements the intimacy, while “Time Was” has Kyle handling flute and Hussain Jiffry’s playful bass via the rich album highlight.
“Awrite Then” and “Winter Warm” exit the listen. The former carries an infectious energy via Tony Guerrero’s lively trumpet and the charming rhythm section, and the latter enlists Luanne Homzy’s strings that help cultivate a poetic and dreamy finish.
At 96 years young, Bryant’s still got a voice that’ll draw you in, and her timeless jazz that touches on the blues is as memorable as ever.
Travels well with: Betty Bryant- Lotta Livin’; Josie Falbo- Kickin’ It