Diana Panton - Red (2014) Hi-Res

Diana Panton is a Canadian singer born in Ottowa and was taken under the wing of multi instrumentalist Don Thompson. She studied at the Jazz Workshop located at the Banff Center for the Arts under Norma Winstone and later Jay Clayton and Sheila Jordan.
She also has a Masters Degree in French Literature as well as completing a teaching degree in French Visual and Dramatic Arts.
For this album Diana has chosen a mix of songs from the Great American Songbook along with more contemporary compositions which gives this release a broader appeal. Although there are traces of other singers in her in her delivery her approach to the interpretation of the lyric of each song is entirely individual.
Apart from some fine singing this album is notable for some talented backing musicians led by the multitalented Don Thompson who was also responsible for the unusual arrangements and line-up.
“Say it” opens with some impressive tenor saxophone by the Coltrane sounding Phil Dwyer which leads into Diana Panton’s laid back vocal a marvellous opening track.
Diana Panton’s approach is not dissimilar to Blossom Dearie but is none the worse for that ass her interpretation of the songs is entirely individual.
Don Thompson’s piano and vibes playing hold your attention throughout the album and along with his arranging are the highpoints of the album.
Diana Panton is joined by Harrisom Kennedy on “Make Yourself Comfortable” and this adds to the vocal fun.
This is my first exposure to Diana Panton’s vocal talents and it was a delightful experience and I look forward to her next album.
Not Forgetting the backing musicians who contributed much to the success of the album, in particular Phil Dwyer on tenor and the multi talented Don Thompson but all the musicians had something to contribute.
I would highly recommend this album and fully expect it to feature in my choice of records of 2015.