Lotta Livin’
Bry-Mar, 2024
8/10
An aptly titled 14th album, the 94 year old Betty Bryant brings her piano, singing and composing skills to these 9 timeless jazz tunes.
“Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea” starts the listen with Bryant’s soulful pipes and warm keys alongside Robert Kyle’s glowing sax and Kenny Elliott’s agile drums, and “Put A Lid On It” follows with Richard Simon’s plucked acoustic bass that suits Bryant’s diverse singing.
Halfway through, “Blues To Get Started” pairs the frisky rhythm section with Bryant’s melodic piano, while “Chicken Wings” spotlights Kyle’s spirited harmonica and spoken word with some southern flavor.
Landing near the end, the romantic “The Very Thought Of You” welcomes Kieber Jorge’s fluid guitar and Kevin Winard’s dreamy percussion, and “A Lot Of Livin’ To Do” exits with Kyle’s airy flute and the playful bass that illuminates Bryant’s friendly singing.
Bryant’s musical career started at age 4 in Kansas City, and it has remained active and consistent with worldwide performances. The 4 originals she penned for this listen are top notch and along with the standards it makes for a festive, swingin’ and blues fueled affair that’s impressive from any artist, regardless of age.
Travels well with: Judy Whitmore- Come Fly With Me; Ada Bird Wolfe- Odd Bird