Search - Shirley Horn :: Softly

Shirley's most intimate

02/07/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Having heard most of Shirley's recorded work, (as well as seeing her live a few times), I can safely say this is the most intimate of all albums put out by this unsung american hero. For those of you who don't know, all of this generation's ballad stylists--Diana Krall,Jane Monheit and just about all of NY's supper club set--nearly owe their careers to Shirley. She is simply devastating when singing a ballad. "Estate" on this album is a particularly poignant testament. What adds to this collection's intimacy is the fact that it was recorded in her kitchen into the wee hours. Sound wise it is just slightly rough, with the volume mixed a little to hot on some of the tracks, but this really just adds to the home spun feel. As for the rest of the playing...steve williams it just plain swingin' his [butt] off! Even on the ballads. I feel this is the trio's best example of their rubato "almost out of time" transcendance. Really a must have."

Quintessential Shirley Horn Trio, timeless grown-up romance

J. Evege | San Francisco | 05/12/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Softly is a masterpice. Anyone who appreciates a grown up sense of romanticism and sensuality will find endless joy from this album. For me, Softly is the perfect soundtrack to a rainy Sunday afternoon in bed with your lover.



The Shirley Horn Trio played so slowly, but with perfect musicality and rhythm, as to be hypnotic. The drummer, Steve williams, is one of the finest percussionists you will ever hear. It should be noted that Shirley Horn is the singer AND pianist. Ms. Horn's voice is sultry and deep while her piano playing displays a highly sensitive understanding of chord structure and voicing. I often think her piano playing sounds like French impressionists like Debussy, Ravel, or Satie.



You're my thrill is a hauntingly beautiful melody/lyric, How Long Has This Been Going On? includes the rarely used opening recitative as heard in "Funny Face" starring Audrey Hepburn, My, How The Time Goes By is the definition of "in-th-pocket" groove, and my favorites: I watch you sleep, and the title track, Softly, truly capture the tender satisfaction of watching your lover sleep and the complexities of adult relationships.



I am an audiophile. I used to think the album was poorly recorded because I had a cheap Pioneer stereo with boomy Bose speakers. On a mediocre stereo the bass is heavy and the treble sounds bright. On a high-end system the album is a bit cool, but very clearly recorded. Audiophile is the name of the record label that produced Softly!



I have every Shirley Horn album and this is perhaps my favorite. I also recommend the albums You Wont Forget Me, I Love You Paris, and Close Enough For Love.



We'll miss you Shirley!"

Fantastic

hbubi | La Jolla, California United States | 10/10/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a truly hypnotic experience. "Estate" will leave you spellbound and so will others. It is very difficult to find this CD, so grab it now. I believe it is a standout among Horn's distinguished body of work. Every single song is great, and this CD goes a long way to guarantee Horn's status as the premier female jazz crooner."