Joanie Sommers returns softly to the Brazilian Sound...bette
David Ybarra | West Hollywood, CA | 12/19/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"For those who know, Joanie Sommers is THE quintessential torch singer of the 1960s. More hip than Eydie Gorme, more sophisticated than Lesley Gore, Joanie Sommers latest release, "SINGS BOSSA NOVA," transcends her title as 'the voice of the sixties,' to THE voice of the last great stylists. She is a generation removed from Chris Connor, a few more removed from June Christy and Anita O'Day, but make no mistake; Joanie Sommers is a direct descendent of their vocal/artistic legacy.
In "SINGS BOSSA NOVA," Sommer tastefully resumes where she left off -- over 25 years before, in the Warner Brothers album 'Softly the Brazilian Sound' from 1964. Utilizing top notch arrangements and the creme of L.A.'s finest jazz players, "SINGS BOSSA NOVA" is an inspired and magical set of classic Bossa tunes ('Desifinado') and her stylized take on contemporary classics such as "Love Wants to Dance," "The Island" and "Someone to Light Up My Life."
Sommers appeal on "SINGS BOSSA NOVA" is her excellent instinct to find new ways to interpret songs like never attempted before. With the risk-taking confidence and execution of Anita O'Day, the lush, warm, dark glow of her perfect pitch, excellent tone and masterful collaboration with her musical team, Sommers "SINGS BOSSA NOVA" is truly the surprise delight of a talent too often overlooked and unexplored.
Bottom line: If all you know about Joanie Sommers is "Johnny Get Angry," you haven't even scratched the surface of her artistry. Do yourself a favor and DISCOVER --or REDISCOVER Joanie Sommers in "SINGS BOSSA NOVA." There is no other voice like this on earth. She truly is the last of the GREAT voices of the jazz/torch singer music movement of the 20th Century.
Standout tracks: "Love Dance," "The Island," "Someone to Light Up My Life" (but all 12 tracks are gorgeous). The beauty, originality and genius of Sommers' take on "The Island" will make your hair stand on end!"
Track Listings (12) - Disc #1