Another Spring
New Artists, 2022
8/10
The jazz vocalist Cheryl Richards is joined by Nick Lyons (alto sax), Adam Caine (guitar), Adam Lane (bass) and Vijay Anderson (drums) for these very spirited interpretations that breathe new life into old songs.
“The Song Is Ended (But The Melody Lingers On)” starts the listen with Richards’ animated pipes being complemented by playful bass, and “Love Me Or Leave Me” follows with frisky drumming that is met with diverse singing that embraces plenty of rhythm.
In the middle, “It’s You Or No One” showcases the soulful sax amid charming vocal acrobatics, while “Love You Madly” finds a romantic place to reside with its infectious energy and timeless jazz appeal.
Further on, “More Than You Know” is quite intimate and flows with a very soulful demeanor, and “Cheryl” exits the listen with charming scatting and some free jazz exploration that’s as exciting as it is unpredictable.
An album that’s not short on melodies and full of inviting and expressive singing, Richards and company swing with the best of them and also find calm moments on this excellent listen.
Travels well with: Vanessa Racci- Jazzy Italian; Marilyn Scott- The Landscape