Album: When The Night Is New /  Artist: Abigail Riccards /  12 tracks: 56:21 /  December 3, 2007 /  Jazz Excursion Records

Even though Jazz vocalist Abigail Riccards, is still in the beginning stages of her career, she has already been the recipient of some significant awards, including Downbeat’s outstanding collegiate vocalist (2002), and along with her band mates, she received Downbeat’s nod for outstanding collegiate vocal jazz group (2004). Demonstrating all the sensibilities of a seasoned jazz singer, Riccards who has performed with the likes of George Duke, Mulgrew Miller, and numerous other noteworthy artists, will soon no doubt have many critical accolades to add to her press kit, with the release of her glorious CD When The Night Is New.

The album consists of twelve love songs, comprised for the most part of classic tunes or standards, the exception being her interpretation of Sting’s “I Was Brought To My Senses.” Her sensitive retelling of Sting’s ballad, provides clear proof that Riccards is a storyteller par excellence. Her phrasing and inflection bring the lyrics to life and the romantic tales unfolds before us.  David Berkman provides a great piano accompaniment and Lage Lund turns in a solid performance on guitar.

Generations have come and gone since Irving Kahal and Sammy Fain first introduced us to the 1938 song “I’ll Be Seeing You,” a tune whose lyrics have become a refrain for friends or lovers parted by distance and time. The longing in Riccards’ voice will be sure to stir fond memories for many listeners. In a time when America finds itself at war, it is poignant that a song that was popular during the Second World War, has resurfaced. As Christmas approaches, Riccards’ gentle vocals will no doubt for some, prompt warm memories of Christmases past.

A song that really caught my ear because of the innovative approach taken by percussionist Rogerio Boccato, is “The Very Thought Of You.”  Thelonious Monk Award winner, Norwegian guitarist Lage Lund’s elegant guitar playing, alone, makes this song worth listening to. Once again Riccards’ emotive vocals pull at the heartstrings.

The CD also contains some good swinging tunes such as “East Of The Sun,” and “The Thrill Is Gone,” both of which Riccards delivers in fine fashion.  Berkman’s organ chops are a treat to listen to.

The warm, mellow refrain of Ron Horton’s flugelhorn brings a sense of fullness to this song that nicely compliments the contemplative tone of Riccards’ vocals, as she sings Johnny Burke’s and James Van Heusen’s “But Beautiful,” to open the CD. Horton also plays the trumpet on this song. Riccards is in good company selecting this song for her album a piece that was recorded by legendary crooners such as Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday and Barbra Streisand. Far be it from me to make suggestions about my readers’ love lives, but a little bit of mistletoe, a warm glowing fireplace and Abigail Riccards singing “But Beautiful,” might just be (wink) a great combination.

Reviewed by Joe Montague for Riveting Riffs (www.rivetingriffs.com)

Reviewed November 2007

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