Search - Various Artists :: Seasons of Love

Smooth Ballads from a Jazz Diva

05/06/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I have studied and followed female jazz vocalists for 50 years, including numerous performances of Sarah Vaughn, Nancy Wilson, Betty Carter, and many others, and I have not heard another with more power, improvisational skill, or professional depth than Ranee Lee.This album is a collection of smooth ballads suitable after dinner with the lights low. It is not for everyone, but, if you can listen to Early Autumn, for example, without a thrill, I can't help you.For other jazz styles by Renee, see Dark Divas or I Thought About You, for example. She soars, she croons, she scats, she swings, she does it all. Her work on Round Midnight is as fine as you might ever hear. She is what the wonderful Sarah Vaughn might have been in this age when vocalists receive serious training."

Disappointed but now I know the Lyrics

10/02/2001

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I found this CD searching for two specific song titles, specifically "Summer Me, Winter Me", and "Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most." The artist was unknown to me however the collection of tunes included the two I wanted plus several others to my taste, "Early Autumn" and "My One and Only Love". After listening to a few snipets I made the purchase. The tunes are still good but overall Ranee Lee was disappointing. Her style is transient. There are moments that produce a smooth sound followed by an abrasive line usually in her upper register. When she pushes she looses her uniqueness. Her abrasive consanants often get in the way of a smooth vowel sound. Some serious pitch problems should have been caught at the studio. The back up men are good. The sax is sultry and the piano is clear and crisp, even bright when need be. The tunes are still valid and and I could understand every word so now I know the lyrics. I would not purchase another of her CD's."