Search - Carmen Lundy :: Self Portrait

ULTIMATE JAZZ SINGER~Bravo Carmen!!!

Bradly Briggs | TOLUCA LAKE, CALIFORNIA | 09/18/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Released in better musical times this extraordinary collection would make Carmen Lundy a household name...for shme to the Jazz Media for overolling the best Jazz Sing alive in the classic tradition of Sarah, Ella, Lena, etc. Not only does Carmen possess a stunning voice that takes one a a brilliant musical journey, she writes classic songs such as the hauntingly beautiful "OLD FRIEND" & "FORGIVE ME", and the illuminating "BETTER DAYS" that stand up superbly next to the classics! "FIREFLY" a brilliant original is a complex mix of multi-vocal tracks complimented by ERNIE WATTS on sax!JOBIM classic "TRISTE" given a masterful treatment features a wonderful breezy tropical arrangement and "MY FAVORITE THINGS" never sounded so sophisicated & sublime as this definitive version. "THESE THINGS YOU ARE TO ME" is deeply moving can bring on tears it is that beautiful Some smart JAZZ PROGRAMMER could easily make "I DON'T WANT TO LOVE WITHOUT YOU" a Smooth Jazz mega-hit! "SPRING CAN REALLY HANG YOU UP THE MOST" is the most glorious version ever while "MY SHIP" has never been quite as stirring or beautifully sung. Over the years there have been many fine versions of THELONIOUS MONK classic "ROUND MIDNIGHT" but this stunning Carmen version is definitive. Five stars is not enough for this ultimate classic filled with great songs and tremendous vocal performances...BRAVO Carmen!"

A stellar jazz vocalist! Her best CD. 5 shooting stars!

Sloper Dude | L'Étoile du Nord | 07/11/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Self Portrait" is one of my very favorite from my 500+ CD jazz collection. I couldn't agree more with other reviewers that Carmen Lundy has vastly more talent, range and a superior voice to Diana Krall. Carmen definitely deserves a wider audience. Unfortunately, marketing has trumped talent in this case.



"Self Portrait" is money well spent even at the hefty purchase price. Hopefully the extra funds go to Ms. Lundy and not to the label.



For more of Carmen than can be found under her own name, check out brother Curtis Lundy's "Against All Odds", a worthy CD in its own right; Carmen sings three songs she wrote for that CD, "A Long Journey Home", "Where'd It Go" and my favorite, "Blue Woman"."

A Diva of Grand Style!!!!!!

Beverly Praiswater | 09/15/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The stylish, gorgeous photograph of Carmen on the cover of this cd is the introduction of what's to come on the inside: a treat for the ears and a gift from her soul!



Carmen's vocal in "Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most" takes on a new soulful journey. The gorgeous orchestrations that accompany her voice add a rich dimension to this song.



Carmen's jazz ballad "Better Days" is very fine and tender. She reaches places deep inside her soul that are so satisfying!



Listening to Carmen's interpretation of "My Favorite Things" is a new departure in songs from "The Sound of Music". These may be the same lyrics but it's not the Julie Andrews song! Whether you like the other version or not, it may surprise you that this one will become your favorite!



"Firefly" is a song that is a totally brilliant gift to the ears. Carmen sings a gorgeous duel duet in this remarkable studio recording. Always a favorite in her live performances, this song is featured in her new concert dvd at the Madrid Theatre as well. Check her website for the details.



Written by Carmen, "Forgive Me" is her soothing yet cooly passionate vocal of aching and longing. The arrangement is sophisticated and maturely satisfying.



One of the most gorgeous vocals of this cd is "These Things You Are To Me", an ultimate tribute to love. Written by Carmen as well, it is a sensuous song both vocally and instumentally.



Then there is her composition that is a tribute entitled "Old Friend". This soft and gentle song contains lyrics of a deep and lasting yet irreplacable relationship.



Personally, I have never heard any one sing "Round Midnight" the way Carmen does. One of my favorite songs, this one is the definitive version of them all!!! Carmen's vocal is mellow in this ballad and the instrumental arrangement has sweet beauty. This exquisite artist can be sampled on You Tube.



Indulge only if you enjoy a singer with fine artistry, vocal talent, and presence! Not just "a jazz singer", Carmen Lundy is a complete artistic experience!"