Very well known in Spain, especially in the Catalunya region, Carme Canela has an attractive vocal sound. Fluid, fresh and with clear diction, she appears here as a member of an established trio that is rounded out with vibraphonist Jorge Rossy and guitarist Jaume Llombart.
Some of the songs heard here are originals: Alcolea 129, a collaboration by Canela and Llombart, Es Hora De Penetrar El Sueño, another collaboration, this one with Gioconde Belli, on which guest tenor saxophonist Bill McHenry solos, and Sexy Time, which is by Rossy.
There are also songs by Vinicius de Moraes and Toninho Horta. On Wayne Shorter’s Diana Canela sings a wordless vocal line, intricately and very closely intertwined with guest trumpeter Benet Palet. On three songs, Canela sings in English: Kurt Weill & Maxwell Anderson’s Lost In The Stars, Alan Jay Lerner & Burton Lane’s Too Late Now and Johnny Mandel & Paul Francis Webster’s The Shadow Of Your Smile.
Although the spotlight is on Canela throughout, there are several effective vibraphone solos by Rossy. On this occasion, guitarist Llombart, a gifted solo performer, is content with a mainly supporting role, providing his two companions with a firm rhythmic base.
At all times, these three musicians are clearly musically and emotionally in tune with one another and effectively draw in the listener. This album should have wide appeal both for the blend of songs, familiar and less so, and for the skilful playing and singing.
Discography
Medo De Mar; Eu Quero Um Samba; Lost In The Stars; Beijo Partido; Diana; Es Hora De Penetrar El Sueño; Sexy Time; Too Late Now; Alcolea 129; The Shadow Of Your Smile (44.26)
Canela (v); Jorge Rossy (vib); Jaume Llombart (g); guests Benet Palet (t on Diana); Bill McHenry (ts on Es Hora De Penetrar El Sueño). Begues, Barcelona, 22 & 23 November 2019.
Fresh Sound Records FSRCD 5125
