Vocal interpretation by Dianne Reeves cuts its own path through music and lyrics – climbing, falling, sustaining, and scatting in jazz styling completely her own. Breath control is superb; melody sometimes eschewed, sometimes embraced. I’m a fan of the latter.
The best of this evening’s choices coupled Reeves with Brazilian material and longtime collaborator, Romero Lubambo (guitars). Whether the vocalist perches on a stool as the two enjoy synergy across the stage or she dances in place, arms, shoulders, and hips illuminating rhythm, these infectious numbers appeal. Oh, for an entire duo show!
The familiar “Triste” (Antonio Carlos Jobim) begins the genre. Reeves clearly has a special relationship with South American pulse. Scat creates an original sound. The artist shows a bit of Bobby McFerrin in her approach. She understands the round and shhh timbre of the language even when unspoken. Lubambo’s musical embroidery is mellow and precisely modulated. Finger work is splendid. He’s also a pleasure to watch.
You come with tender eyes/My welcome reprieve/My pleasant reprieve… she sings in the samba “Goodbye.” Bass thrums, keyboard hums. It’s dark, resonant. Reeves dwells. “A Time for Love” (Johnny Mandel/Paul Frances Webster), again just the two performers, is languid. Notes linger at the back of her throat or drift down like errant blossoms. Lubambo’s guitar sighs.
Successful exceptions included “Smile” (Charles Chaplin) with country club fox trot percussion and “My Foolish Heart” (Victor Young/Ned Washington) arriving with long-lined lyric and slow sway.
Stephen Sondheim’s “I Remember Sky”, an extremely poignant song, is unfortunately vocally strident.
Opening photo courtesy of the artist
Dianne Reeves: Let’s Fall in Love
Dianne Reeves-Vocals
Romero Lubambo-Guitars
John Beasley-Piano/Keys
Reuben Rogers-Basses
Terreon Gully-Drums
Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Theater – Broadway at West 60th Street
