Reviewed by Amanda Chan

Fans of vocalist and pianist Diane Schuur have probably already happily added her latest CD to their collection. If you have not yet discovered her, trust me when I say you'll devour Some Other Time, (Concord Music Group). Her latest release is a compilation of thirteen golden standards by George and Ira Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Sammy Cahn, Rogers and Hammerstein and more. In her own words, "this is a celebration of the fortieth anniversary of my mother's death," and, “of the music that she introduced me to when I was growing up." Her mother died at thirty years, when Diane was only thirteen years old.

Throughout most of the album, Schurr is supported by a stellar ensemble with Randy Porter on piano, Dan Balmer (guitar), Scott Steed (bass) and Reggie Jackson (drums). With arrangements that are fresh and imaginative, the team works effortlessly together and they weave in and out of the spotlight as they take turns supporting one another. They expertly find the delicate balance of swinging at the back of the beat, without losing the forward momentum. Porter cleverly divides his time between being a duet partner to the vocal line, and being one with the band. Balmer balances out the sound with his focused, gentle timbre, while adding commentaries, which enhance the harmonic color. Steed adopts a textbook 'walking bass,' and intelligently carves out his own unique kicks, using syncopation that gives rhythmic dimension. Jackson masterfully works the buildups and drops of intensity while reacting stylistically to the interpretative nuances of the music.  

The musicians establish an atmosphere for each changing mood, on top of which Schuur crafts her dynamic voice, while bringing out the unique characteristics of each song. One gets the sense that the musicians’ musical sensibilities have such a natural connection, and these tracks are from first recorded takes. It is not surprising to hear Schurr’s comment, "It was a very spontaneous, very intuitive process." With such great support, Diane Schuur shines comfortably, with ease and skill, as she confidently plays with the rhythm and tone. Schuur’s natural vocals permit the music to flow, creating the sense that you could listen to her sing all day. Her voice is warm and welcoming, as she creates an illusion that she is in your living room, singing only to you. Schuur exhibits a strength that is not obtrusive, but instead much more reassuring like a mother’s love.

Schurr’s ability as a pianist equals her talents as a vocalist. She accompanies herself on two of the track, “It’s Magic,” and “The Good Life.”

One of the closing tracks is a precious gem that is taken from a 1964 recording of a ten-year old Schuur and her parents at a Holiday Inn in Tacoma, Washington. Listening to the unmistakable maturity and confidence already found in one so young, one is struck by the realization she was born to be a singer. What follows is a touching exchange between the young girl and her mother. When asked if she knows "Danny Boy," Diane promises her mother she'll record that song just for her. The final track on the CD is an emotionally charged version of the famous Irish tune. Diane opens up her heart and bares her soul, generously letting us experience the intimate and personal feelings that she associates with this song.