Petra Van Nuis - Because We're Night People (2018)

On the elegant and delightful Because We're Night People Chicago natives, vocalist Petra van Nuis and pianist Dennis Luxion, interpret thirteen night-themed tunes with charm and sophistication. The two musicians are superbly matched, she with her refined grace and emotive vocals and he with his vibrant lyricism. The pair performs a selection of standards in a refreshingly singular style, that is simultaneously true to the original's essence yet deeply personal.

For example, Luxion embellishes the intimate "Night People," from the 1959 Broadway hit show The Nervous Set, with a soulful and dramatic flair. Meanwhile van Nuis articulates the words in her rich voice with silken finesse. Together they create a warm and intimate ambience. Elsewhere, on composer and band leader Sonny Burke's "Black Coffee," van Nuis' unhurried phrasing glides sensually over Luxion's simmering refrains.

Luxion plays darkly shimmering lines, like moonlight on the surface of a pond, on an impressionistic take of trumpeter Chet Baker's "While My Lover Sleeps." Van Nuis intones a warm and passionate lullaby over the pianist's serene and fluid chords. Luxion's dramatic cascading notes open a wistful version of pianist and singer Matt Dennis' "The Night We Called It A Day." Luxion continues to embellish the melody with bluesy hints as he underscores van Nuis' tender singing, full of reserved emotion.

Thanks to van Nuis and Luxion's talents and camaraderie Because We're Night People is an album that is both hauntingly atmospheric and filled with creative substance. The music is poetic, moving and subtly provocative. In sum it is a satisfyingly multilayered disc that delights more with each spin.~By Hrayr Attarian