Search - Abbey Lincoln :: That's Him

That's Him

lforrest14 | Silver Spring, Maryland USA | 02/22/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Riverside Records knew what they were doing when they released "That's Him". They had an unknown Abbey Lincoln backed up by a true powerhouse ensemble. It's hard to imagine a more formidable collection of musicians. Sonny Rollins on sax, Kenny Dorham on trumpet, Wynton Kelly on Piano and Paul Chambers on Bass. Each is a recognized legend. Ms. Lincoln tackles several selections usually associated with Billie Holliday. A formidable task which she manages well. Rather than try to copy Ms. Holliday's inimitable style, she offers her own interpretations. I was most impressed with "Strong Man" (my wife played it for me at our wedding} and "My Man". Ms. Lincoln's now signature phrasing and emotion is especially evident on "My Man". I must admit that I prefer Ms. Lincoln's interpretation to that of Ms. Holliday. I have to give this recording 5 stars for the following reasons:
1. Her supporting musicians are unmatched (even the missed notes by Sonny Rollins on the saxophone are priceless)
2. Abbey Lincoln is in my estimation the most expressive and emotional singer I have ever had the privilege of hearing.
3. The recording provides a window through which we can listen to some of the earliest incarnations of a vocal style which has influenced a great number of current Jazz singers
4. I Love Abbey Lincoln!"

Wonderful

bookscdsdvdsandcoolstuff | USA | 08/29/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Abby Lincoln's voice is as unique as it is expressive. Over the years she has made recordings with some of the best musicians in the business. This record is outstanding. I had the privilege of hearing Abby Lincoln live in New Haven at the Festival of Arts and Ideas several years back, and her creative ideas and ability to interpret a melody haven't diminished over the years.



This record features Sonny Rollins, Kenny Dorham, Wynton Kelly, and Paul Chambers. This is an outstanding line-up.



The first tune is one one of my favorites. It is entitled "Strong Man." It is refreshing in this day an age to hear someone sing "I am in love with a strong man." Today most men are portrayed in music as stupid, weak, or womanizing and sexist. This is a refreshing reminder of what real men are called to be.



The whole record is beautiful and beautifully recorded. "Porgy" is a real gem as well.



Sonny Rollins is brilliant on this record. His solos are sparse and he is a supporting role, but he fulfills it very competently.



Great record."

Abbey lives on through her music--BRAVO and R.I.P., ABBEY LI

Matthew G. Sherwin | last seen screaming at Amazon customer service | 08/15/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Abbey Lincoln may have passed away, but she will clearly live on forever through her wonderful singing and creative artistry on CDs like this one. Abbey is in perfect form throughout the album; she has a tremendous command of the material and the musicians couldn't be better--as others note, Sonny Rollins plays saxophone; Kenny Dorham plays the trumpet; Wynton Kelly plays piano and Paul Chambers plays bass. Excellent! The quality of the sound is excellent and that artwork is tastefully done.



There isn't a bad number in the set here although of course I have my favorites as you will, too. "Strong Man" opens the album with Abbey singing to perfection--and beyond! Her excellent sense of timing, her sophisticated phrasing and her excellent diction enhance her singing all the more--and the music fits perfectly with her vocals. In addition, I always liked "Happiness Is a Thing Called Joe;" and Abbey handles this with panache--it's very memorable indeed!



"My Man" has a wonderful arrangement although Abbey remains squarely in the spotlight--which is right where she belongs! "That's Him," the title track, again showcases Abbey Lincoln's incredible talent as she never lets go of a single superfluous note. "I Must Have That Man" is very well done; and it's interesting to compare this to the alternate take that we also get here.



"Porgy" and its alternate take get the royal treatment from Abbey Lincoln; "Porgy" is certainly a highlight of this CD. "When a Woman Loves a Man" also has a very special, sophisticated arrangement that shines bright; and the album concludes with Abbey Lincoln and the musicians performing "Don't Explain." "Don't Explain" is brilliant and it leaves me wanting more!



This is a must-have CD for any fan of Abbey Lincoln; indeed it's such a fine set of songs that this would also be a great introduction to Abbey for newcomers to her magic. I also recommend this album for people who like classic jazz vocals or classic pop vocals with a jazzy twist."