Out Of A Dream
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
A singer with a romantic set of pipes, Laura Stilwell brings us 8 of her favorite standards, and she’s got Tommy James (piano), Perry Thoorsell (bass), Dennis Caiazza (bass), Ron Steen (drums), and Dave Evans (clarinet, saxophone) along for the occasion.
“Day In Day Out” opens the listen with warm piano and bouncy bass lines complementing Stilwell’s agile and expressive pipes in the upbeat jazz setting, and “Out Of Nowhere” follows with a very soulful, poetic quality entering the very mature climate.
Halfway through, “Inutil Paisagem (If You Never Come To Me)” flows with charming drumming and strong piano work in the more dramatic demeanor, while “Don’t Be That Way” welcomes playful clarinet to the swingin’ fun and catchy chorus.
Moving towards the end, “You Stepped Out Of A Dream” embraces Samba ideas as Stilwell’s scatting makes an impression, as does the cozy saxophone, and “A Time For Love” exits the listen with much beauty in its gentle and spirited musicianship.
Although much of her career has had Stilwell working behind the scenes, this effort puts her front and center, and showcases her timeless skills in a very heartfelt fashion.
Travels well with: Dawn Derow- My Ship: Songs From 1941; Dee Bell- Love For Sailin’ Over Seas: Then & Now