Roz Corral - Telling Tales (2005)

Roz Corral, who makes her recording debut on this CD, sounds a bit like Ella Fitzgerald on the opening "Too Close for Comfort," but otherwise her warm voice is quite individual. She swings, sticks close to the melody and lyrics, and is a very capable storyteller. Her set greatly benefits from the arrangements of pianist Bruce Barth, which cast some of these songs in surprising ways, including dark versions of "Change Partners" and "Let's Face the Music and Dance." Guitarist John Hart contributed a surprising double-time arrangement of "I'll Never Be the Same," which is usually a ballad. Sprinkled throughout the set are fine solos, including a rare Steve Wilson spot on clarinet during "Anyone Can Whistle." Other highlights include a tender version of "Little Girl Blue," a touching "Say It Isn't So," and the cheerful closer, "Something's Gotta Give." Roz Corral is impressive throughout and this is an excellent debut, easily recommended.~© Scott Yanow /TiVo