Live At Maureen’s Jazz Cellar
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
Listen to Live At Maureen’s Jazz Cellar
The vocalist Tania Grubbs is in great company here, as she’s accompanied by David Budway on keys, Ron Affif holding down guitar while Jeff Grubbs takes up bass, and James Johnson III sits behind the drum kit on this love letter to Pittsburgh jazz legend Maureen Budway.
“A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing” starts the listen with vivid keys and a frisky jazz pace that aligns with expressive, sultry vocals from Grubbs, and “Bird On A Wire” continues the mood with soaring singing amid the dynamic musicianship that’s got plenty of pop spirit, too.
Elsewhere, “Hope Is A Thing With Feathers” flows with breezy melodies and flawless singing, while “Ornithology”, a Charlie Parker tune, displays incredible vocal acrobatics with some playful scatting. “Harvest Moon”, the longest and one of the best tunes, then finds a soft place to reside, with plucked bass and friskiness highlighting the Neil Young classic.
Close to the end, “I Remember” enters ballad territory with stirring results and “Don’t Take Your Love From Me” exits the listen with plenty of emotion as reserved percussion and blues influences are present.
The live recording captures a very fluid energy between Grubbs and the players, as they pay homage to Maureen with much respect and unparalleled skill on this strong, timeless jazz listen.
Travels well with: Diane Schuur- Running On Faith; Sharon Isbin- Affinity