Album Review: Crowded Heart from Judy Wexler

Album:  Crowded Heart
Artist:  Judy Wexler
Label:  Jewel City Jazz
Website:  facebook.com/judywexler.music

Vocalist Judy Wexler presents a warm and lasting rendition of 10 modern jazz compositions written by contemporary songwriters on her recording Crowded Heart.  Co-produced and arranged by Alan Pasqua, the music shines with a moonlight glow complemented by Wexler's caressing vocal strokes that brand a balmy luster in the tracks. 

Her treatment of Gregory Porter's "Painted on Canvas" is gurneyed in a slow simmering beat with the lacy curls of Josh Johnson's alto sax adding depth and texture to the number.  Her interaction with the rhythmic pumps of bassist Darek Oles and drummer Steve Hass make for a smooth ride.  "Stars," written by Fred Hersch and Norma Winstone is a silky serenade that brings out Wexler's sensuous vocal inflections, which turn to a sultry purr in "Take My Breath Away," brimming with feline lure.  The storytime tone in her delivery in "I Took Your Hand" carves out comfy knolls made of crests and valleys along the melodic progressions, which smoothen to dreamy wisps through "It's Only Smoke."

Californian native, Judy Wexler embraces the bluesy cabaret style of Sarah Vaughan and adds a contemporary lilt to her delivery.   Her recording is a cavalcade of dreamy passages that warm the listener and sedate the senses.

Musicians:
Judy Wexler - vocals
Alan Pasqua - piano, melodica, whistling
Larry Koonse - guitar
Josh Johnson - alto sax
Bob Sheppard - alto flute
Darek Oles - bass
Steve Hass - drums
Aaron Serfaty - percussion
Stefanie Fife - cello