Refined sultry tones that melt even the most chilling winter eve are what may be waiting for some jazz fans under their holiday fur in 2005. A seasoned voice with the hypnotic draw of a long lost loves return explains the affect Barbara Montgomery has on the heart and soul. Reaching out this holiday season with her specialty offering Noel -One From The Heart released by Two Beans Music is a "home for the holidays" holiday chart leader.
Seasonal sophistication is achieved consistently through this project. Ms. Montgomery senses and delivers the feel of the spirit. Some yuletide releases seem to be delivered with an assembly-line mentality, even when they are not meant to be but this is sentiment in song with a purpose behind it. Ms. Montgomery strong perceptual intuition comprehends the audience’s needs and what moves them as proven in her past works.
A very special and heated performance is that of "Children Go Where I Send Thee" this is pure cool with a bow on it. Traditional? Absolutely but the delivery is far from old school tradition. Grab the spirit and count your blessings this is a fine example of the Montgomery flamboyance. Take special consideration of the heavy outro to this piece, very nice touch to this standard.
John Rutter’s "Carol of the Children" also needs to be singled out for the delivery of Ms. Montgomery seemingly reaches out to the yuletide masses. The piano work of Tom Lawton adds volumes to this recording in foundation and structure. At the same time allowing the message with the vocals attached to be heard with that passion that makes it all work.
This is a holiday treat that is made to close out those festive evenings. The vocals are rich with tone and melody; the delivery is far above acceptable standards. Ms. Montgomery’s effort was not only a gift to the jazz fandom but to all who feel the spirit of the times.
Karl Stober is an international freelance columnist and broadcaster who can be reached at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Karl can also be reached at 1-251-625-0866.
