Search - Andy Bey :: American Song

American Song
Andy Bey
American Song
Genres: Jazz, Pop, Broadway & Vocalists
 
  •  Track Listings (10) - Disc #1


     
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CD Details

All Artists: Andy Bey
Title: American Song
Members Wishing: 1
Total Copies: 0
Label: Savoy Jazz
Release Date: 4/20/2004
Genres: Jazz, Pop, Broadway & Vocalists
Styles: Vocal Jazz, Vocal Pop, Traditional Vocal Pop
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaCD Credits: 1
UPC: 795041735423

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CD Reviews

Master Class -- 4.5 stars
Barrett | Washington, D.C. United States | 10/24/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)

"It's a shame that Andy Bey is little known outside of jazz-vocal enthusiast circles, because his artistry has the capacity to connect with a broader audience -- possibly even in the manner of a Fitzgerald or an Armstrong. Heady comparisons, to be sure, and Bey's vocal signature isn't as singular or as immutable as those great artists' (for a start, he doesn't display much wit). But for most of "American Song" -- recorded when he was 64 -- he's virtually as commanding as either. Yes, the first-rate (or better) material helps, but in its occasional overfamiliarity it's also a snare, one that Bey gracefully sidesteps. His warm-bath baritone seems merely to be sidling up to the lyric, and his phrasing continually surprises without crossing the line into show-off territory. So a song may be half-over before you realize that he's cut to its core. He revives the warhorses -- and what a gift to hear these great numbers anew. The arranger, Geri Allen, supplies spare yet sensuous backdrops for the singer's dark-toned readings. (It's perhaps the most artful make-out disc since Coltrane and Hartman's.) And if Bey doesn't quite mint a new take on the trickiest lyric here, Strayhorn's "Lush Life," he takes flight with a vocalese coda as eloquent as the melody."
Super smooth , smokey , silky , stupendously soothing , sult
Jim Z | 01/10/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)

"So...slap it in your cart. This guy's voice is remarkable ; and the choice of material is superlative. Great CD to listen when the lights are low , with a beverage of choice , and partner of choice. So , simply indulge yourself !"
Liquid velvet sateen.
S. Barton | NYC | 03/04/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have never heard a bad note from Andy Bey, whether live or on record. His ability to mine and reinvent the American songbook is exemplary. Tunes that seem to have been recycled ad infinitum, become fresh in each of his interpretations. To me there is balance, grace and a depth of nuance and sophistication that comes together with his singing and accompaniment that is reminiscent of Nina Simone's gifts. American Song seems like the anticipated sequel to, "Ballads, Blues and Bey"; and an essential addition to anyone's collection who is interested in the American Song Book, jazz song and Andy Bey. The yang to this ying would be the live album, "Ain't Necessarily So." Do not let this American Original Musical Genius go unheard!"