You Are There
Product Description
“A pure voice that flows as easily as burnished notes from a muted trumpet, impeccable musicianship, pellucid phrasing, the ability to swing an up-tune and infuse a ballad with simmering passion.” — Huffington Post “Polished and pure.” — Rex Reed, New York Observer “This listener can’t recall in years so smashing a solo CD debut as this winner … Kole inhabits each [song] with a thoroughness and emotional authenticity that belies her young years.” — Al… More >>

For her sophomore CD, Hilary Cole sings 13 covers accompanied by 11 jazz pianists: Kenny Barron, Monty Alexander, Alan Broadbent, Cedar Walton, Freddy Cole, Benny Green, Steve Kuhn, Michel Legrand, Dave Brubeck, Mike Renzi, and the late Hank Jones. The results are sophisticated and enchanting, perfectly showcasing her pitch perfect vocals and pellucid phrasing. Oh, and did I mention that she is also rather easy on the eye?
Dave Brubeck accompanies her twice, on “These foolish things” and “Strange meadowlark”, as does Hank Jones on “If I had you” and “But beautiful”. There isn’t any need to go into each track, but “Everytime we say goodbye” has a simple divine piano break (Cedar Walton), while Freddy Cole also duets vocally with her on the playful “It’s always you” (and sounding like Nat King Cole). She also handles the challenging Billy Strayhorn classic “Lush life” with Kenny Barron with ease.
Every song is a classic, the last Jazz CD I enjoyed as much was My One & Only Thrill by Melody Gardot. Kole inhabits each song with inflections and emotion that belies her age. Truly beautiful romantic music.
Rating: 5 / 5