Search - Calabria Foti :: A Lovely Way To Spend An Evening

She Brings Glamour With A Touch of Nostalgia Into Each Song

Rebecca*rhapsodyinblue* | CA USA | 04/14/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

""The title 'A Lovely Way To Spend An Evening' perfectly describes this incredible CD from Calabria Foti. It is one of the best records I have ever heard. Calabria is truly a marvelous singer in every way. She has all the technique and musicality you could want, and has the ability to tell a story and touch your heart. Everything about this production sounds just like what I would want it if it were my own. I'm jealous! The string arrangements by Bob McChesney are exquisite, as are his trombone solos. I'm sure you will enjoy this CD as much as I do." ~ Johnny Mandel ~



I couldn't agree more with Johnny Mandel! And coming from a brilliant and talented arranger/composer/conductor himself, he perfectly said all the good things about this sophomore CD of Calabria Foti, "A Lovely Way To Spend An Evening." She's one of the most talented and versatile artists who ever graced the world of jazz for she's not only a great singer, but also an arranger, songwriter and violinist as well. You can hear her violin solo on "Do It Again."



With a set of ten timeless and gorgeous standards from the big names of Tin Pan Alley, the likes of George Gershwin, Jimmy McHugh, Cole Porter, Jule Styne, Harold Adamson, among others, Ms. Foti with her impressive vocal art brings glamour with a touch of nostalgia into each song making this CD so listener-friendly and worthy to be in every jazz lover's music collection.



The ingenious charts were flawlessly co-arranged by Ms. Foti with Matt Harris, Trey Henry, and her husband, trombonist/arranger Bob McChesney, who also plays a notable solo on "A Lovely Way To Spend An Evening," an all-time favorite of mine. She is backed by some of the finest musicians/soloists in the jazz scene today namely Bob McChesney (trombone), Larry Koonse (guitar), Matt Harris (piano), Trey Henry (bass), Rob Lockhart (tenor sax), Dick Weller (drums), Luis Conte (percussion) and a string section composed of 26 musicians who are all skilled in violin, cello and viola.



My favorites? Not a single song, but the entire CD. There isn't any uninspiring track from this set -- they're all winners, but she's truly at her utmost best in "The Touch of Your Lips" where she scats impressively.



"A Lovely Way To Spend An Evening?" Quality time with your special someone: a cozy, candlelight, home-cooked dinner complete with your favorite wine and dessert ... and make this CD a part of it and create some wonderful memories to cherish forever.



Recommended? Most definitely! ... to every music lover who greatly appreciate gorgeous vocal jazz recordings."

The title says it all

Kenneth A. Kensek | USA | 09/22/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This a wonderfully soothing album; put on the CD and let your cares go out the window, it IS a lovely way to spend an evening."

A Lovely Way To Spend An Evening

Maxine Cotton | 12/14/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A very beautiful voice and great accompaniment. Her voice is so soothing, a delight to listen to! A wonderful experience. Would like to know when another CD of hers is available. Have shared this CD with several friends that have also found this to be an exceptional voice."