Maureen Kennedy excels on the Porter tunes, "After You" and "Get Out Of Town" for me the hi-light tune of the album that comes across with a swinging intensity. Other tunes that have a swing feel, "You For Me" composed by Bob Haymes. And a surprising take on "Who Knows Where The Time Goes" a Sandy Denny composition (a UK folk artist). The arrangement is by Nancy Walker. Another of her arrangements that comes across delightfully is the Irving Berlin standard "Let's Face The Music And Dance".
"Illusion" with lyrics by Judy Tate and music composed by Tchaikovsky is another wonderful song that has a great feel to it. The song sounds familiar; it has that jazz standard feel to it.
"River Man" by Nick Drake (another folk rocker, who like Sandy Denny passed away tragically in the seventies) gets a contemporary jazz spin. "Dreamer" by Lees and Jobim is performed as a ballad that showcases the rich lush tones of Kennedy as she purrs through this classic Jobim tune.
This Is Always is vocal jazz at its best. The song selection makes it sound timeless. The trio in support are a cohesive unit that supports Ms. Kennedy on every level. The album is well produced by the bassist Kieran Overs, whose jazz chops are impeccable.
