Patti Wicks - Love Locked Out (2003)

Patti Wicks is a singing pianist who can be somewhat compared to Shirley Horn, though she has a huskier voice and a smaller range. But her effectiveness in interpreting the lyrics to each of the 14 songs on Love Locked Out is never in question, as she gets to the essence of each of them, while providing just the right accompaniment. Whether she is by herself or backed by two distinguished veterans, bassist Keter Betts and drummer Joe La Barbera, she obviously delights in performing songs from the Great American Songbook, such as "Body and Soul," "Love Locked Out," and "It Never Entered My Mind." She especially captures the blue mood of Johnny Mandel's brilliant "I Never Told You" and the bittersweet flavor of "On Second Thought." The intimate sound of this recording makes it seem as if the listener is attending a private concert at home. Recommended. ~ Ken Dryden

Personnel: Patti Wicks (vocals, piano); Keter Betts (bass); Joe LaBarbera (drums).