Susan Krebs - Jazz Gardener (1999)

Given the wide diversity of music, arrangements, and vocal styles represented on her maiden album, Susan Krebs' "jazz garden" must be bursting with a plethora of blossoms. Although there's a touch of the blues in virtually everything she touches, Jazz Gardener sings the blues most notably on "Compost Blues" (a blues with a Latin beat) and "The Blues Are Brewin." There are also ballads, like Irving Berlin's "What'll I Do?" in a very soulful, somber mood, which Gary Foster's doleful soprano saxophone helps to create and maintain. Contemporary pop music is represented by Jerry Rankin's "In the Name of Love," while smooth, jazzy sounds are found in "You Don't Know What Love Is." "Don't Fence Me In" is a pop blast from the past, and "Cockeyed Optimist" from the Broadway musical South Pacific starts off in a melancholy atmosphere before seguing into a bossa nova. Krebs can also swing, as seen on "My Foolish Heart" with Jerry Kalaf's brushes whisking the meolody along. The playlist and arrangements are like the weather; if you don't fancy what you're hearing now, wait a track or two and things will change. Categorizing Krebs' voice is not easy; it is anything but prissy and dry, but filled with emotion ranging from a deep, throaty hue to a girlish, higher-pitched tone. Although there's no scatting or other wordless vocalizing, Krebs vocals swoop, drop behind the beat, and generally stay just a little off center. "Skylark," more than any of the other cuts, demonstrates her vocal gymnastics and her emotional intensity. After she delivers a song, Krebs leaves nothing on the table. Her excellent diction and interpretative abilities pay tribute to her teacher, the inestimable Sue Raney. There's outstanding help and support on this variegated agenda of tunes. Guest Gary Foster lends his alto to a rendition of "Small Day Tomorrow" and his tenor to "The Blues Are Brewin." He seems to be a favorite of female songbirds, having been a guest on albums by Natalie Cole, Monica Mancini, and Wesla Whitfield. Louis Durra's organ and Jerry Kalaf's vibes provide a smooth background for "You Don't Know What Love Is." Durra is equally facile on the piano and provides solid accompaniment for Krebs throughout the session. Joe Romano's trumpet helps to end the album on an upbeat note with his muted contributions on "Jazz Gardener," one of two originals on the record. For most, more than one listening of Jazz Gardener will be necessary to fully appreciate Susan Krebs' way with music. This album is well worth the time and effort. ~Dave Nathan