CD Title: Lizabeth Live at the Marquee Lounge
Year: 2003
Record Label: Independent
Style: Jazz Vocals
Musicians: Lizabeth Flood (vocals, piano)
Review: Interpreting the works of legendary composers and arrangers through vocalese is an art form in itself; however, when singers take it upon themselves to do so, they should stay close to the original intent. Washington, D.C.-based singer Lizabeth Flood has attempted to do that with her latest release entitled 'Lizabeth Live at the Marquee Lounge.' With her decision to do so, Ms. Flood has recorded 14-tracks of original and classic compositions, all of which provide a perspective on her abilities as a vocalist.
Hailed by some as one of the finest interpreters of song in the Washington, D.C. area, Lizabeth sings the tunes made famous by Hoagy Carmichael, W.C. Handy, Cole Porter, Johnny Mercer, George and Ira Gershwin, as well as those of Rogers and Hart. Included on the recording are two of Flood's compositions to augment what has been described as her absolute best. This is Lizabeth's third album as an independent artist and her first live release. Recorded during two separate performances at the Marquee Lounge in D.C., the main premise of the CD appears to be a cornucopia of love songs, all revealing the sensuous nature of her voice.
The process of recording 'Lizabeth Live at the Marquee Lounge' appears to be a labor of love for Ms. Flood. Based upon the warmth and sheer measure of her voice, Lizabeth goes above and beyond the usual complement of most singers. She brings a style that is sexy and smooth to the ears of those who hear her. Those individuals unfamiliar with her talent are deeply impacted as well. Overall, this third release by Lizabeth Flood is a nice response and tribute to the works of some of America's finest composers and arrangers. The original tracks she provides are extremely complimentary to her abilities as a composer.
Nowadays, quality vocal jazz is a difficult commodity to come by. When someone comes along with the skills and talent of a Lizabeth Flood, it is an event worth a listen.
Tracks: Small Fry, Don't Blame Me, Smile, Dream, At Sunrise, But Not For Me, Saint Louis Blues, What Might Have Been, Superstar, Ain't Misbehavin', Summertime, Why Can't You Behave, My Funny Valentine, The Very Thought of You
Reviewed by: Sheldon T. Nunn