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...