Lotus Blossom Days
ViBu Jazz, 2022
8/10
An esteemed vocalist with an affinity for romantic music of the 20th century, Vicki Burns brings us 12 tracks, 3 of which are originals, for a very spirited, heartfelt and rhythmic listening experience.
“If You Never Fall In Love With Me/Del Sasser” opens the listen with an upbeat and dance floor ready energy that illuminates Burns’ smooth pipes amid the bright horns and Art Hirahara’s flowing piano, and “Close Your Eyes” follows with Sam Bevan’s playful bass work and Josh Deutsch’s soulful trumpet making an impression.
“Watch Out/The Sidewinder” arrives in the middle and brings charming vocal scatting amid the jumpy keys and Billy Drummond’s energetic drumming, while “You Don’t Have To Believe” welcomes Nick Vayenas on trombone as the setting turns intimate, lush and powerful.
The final 2 songs, “Siren Song” and “Out Of This World”, are equally exciting, where the former offers a slow burning and emotive demeanor, and the latter exits with a busy, flowing and sublimely textured approach.
Burns possesses a 3 octave range and a timeless tone, and along with her exceptional help she delivers a listen that revolves around the ups and downs of love. This is her 3rd release as leader and first since 2008, but she certainly makes it worth the wait with her irresistible scatting, lively swing moments and universally enjoyable jazz template.
Travels well with: Ada Bird Wolfe- Odd Bird; Mark Winkler- Late Bloomin’ Jazzman