During the past few years, Canada’s standing in the world of popular song has been enhanced by the arrival on the scene of many good singers with a liking for and understanding of the Great American Songbook. On this, his debut album, Jeremy Wong makes clear that he is an able contributor to this laudable movement.
Collaborating with a lithely swinging quintet, Wong performs a selection of mostly familiar standards with a vocal sound that is warm and youthful and his interpretation of the lyrics of these songs is generally good.
Throughout, the ensemble playing is notable, with tenor saxophonist Ardeshir Pourkeramati having many fiery and often extended solos. On several songs there are also long and good solos by pianist Chris Gestrin and guitarist Alvin Brendan. Apart from the very good solo skills displayed by these three instrumentalists, they also provide effective support for the singer as do bassist John Lee and drummer Jesse Cahill, cushioning and driving appropriately.
The singer’s background includes studying for a diploma in jazz studies from Vancouver’s Capilano University, singing in choirs and in a collegiate quartet. He has also sung on television and radio, in clubs and hotel lounges, and as an entertainer on cruise ships.
In addition to singing, Wong also writes songs and two examples of his work are included here. These are I Don’t Regret A Thing, for which he wrote words and music, and Only A Dream, with his lyrics to Pourkeramati’s music. On a couple of songs Wong scats, something that would perhaps have been better left aside at this stage. Also speculative is the thought that seeing as well as hearing Wong perform will be an entertaining experience. Well worth keeping an eye open and ears alert for this singer in future years.
Discography
Where Or When; Invitation; Only A Dream; Easy To Love; Hey There; Never Will I Marry; Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most; The Days Of Wine And Roses; Jive; I Don’t Regret A Thing (50.46)
Wong (v); Ardeshir Pourkeramati (ts); Chris Gestrin (p); Alvin Brendan (g); John Lee (b); Jesse Cahill (d). Vancouver, Canada, 3 October 2021.
Cellar Music Group CM100321
