Search - Shirley Horn :: I Love You Paris

Greatness

sedonatunes | 02/22/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

""I Love You, Paris" rewards the listener in almost every cut and in every way. The songs are (save one) keepers. Shirley's rhythm inventive, her piano inspired, and most importantly, her vocals more quiet, yet more intense than I've heard before. Shirley's in her warmest, most welcoming voice here, kicking things off with a playful "Wouldn't It Be Loverly?" Her performance and the song itself bring to mind all the reasons we love to love and it sets a tone that tells you from the beginning, 'this album transcends'. "Do It Again" echoes "Loverly's" playfulness but at Shirley's slow, ballad pace. "He Was Too Good To Me" is another of her warm, subtle, melancholy reads.But where Shirley transcends (and where she requires the most from her listener) is her medley "I Loves You Porgy/Here Comes De Honey Man". I've never heard her deliver a quieter, more haunting performance. The piano is priceless, but her vocal delivery is the star. It's so full of the longing and fear that are this song, to hear it is to hear genius.The album would get the whole five stars if it weren't for the bloated arrangement of Leon Russell's "A Song For You". And really, once you hear 'Porgy/Hone Man' you'll never get past it on the album anyway."

Masterful--A pure delight

muskiedine | 10/06/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD gets better with age, just like Shirley Horn. She spans the map here, from upbeat to heartbreak, and shines the whole way through. I Loves You Porgy is pure artistry--just remarkably beautiful. If you are looking for a meaningful introduction to Ms. Horn's work, this will do it."

A very exquisite live vocal performance

muskiedine | U.S. | 12/06/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I discovered the music of Shirley Horn in 1997 while listening to a jazz station on some rainy Sunday afternoon. Since then, I've been a fan and ardent admirer of her craft. "I Love You, Paris" was the first CD of hers that I purchased, so it will always have a special place not only in my collection, but in my memories. The songs here are wonderful; there is something for everyone who loves great jazz vocals. I personally enjoy all of the selections, but really dig "Old Country," "It's Easy to Remember," "L.A. Breakdown," "I Loves You Porgy," and "That Old Devil Called Love." Great, great stuff--the kind of music that sticks to you 'til the end--meaningful, evocative, romantic, passionate. Enjoy."