Melody Gardot Sunset in the Blue Rodeo

Melody Gardot
Sunset in the Blue Rodeo
Verve

While her roots are a jazz singer, Melody Gardot may be more accurately described as a vocal stylist. Her soft, sensual, smoky, sultry singing might remind listeners of Peggy Lee with a tinge of Billie Holiday. On her latest recording, she has reunited with arranger and composer Vince Mendoza and engineer Al Schmitt for this exploration of standards and originals set against lush orchestral settings. Trumpeter Till Bronner and guitarist Anthony Wilson are among the players.

Despite the orchestral backing on this album, there is an intimate quality to her vocals. This is heard on the opening "If You Love Me" with her plea to let her know. My download to review does not include full personnel, but there is a lovely trumpet solo likely by Bronner. There is a lovely duet, "C'est Magnifique," with Fado singer Antonio Zambujo, that mingles Portuguese with English and French with some soft Spanish guitar. The Spanish guitar is also present on the lively Bossa Nova, "Ninguem, Ninguem."

Her atmospheric, evocative singing is exquisite, particularly on "Ave Maria," which is not the religious song but a torch song. Then there is a dreamy interpretation of "Moon River," followed by a delicate, blue-tinged, "I Fall In Love Too Easily," with tasteful guitar accompaniment. It closes this sterling new recording from Melody Gardot.

I received a download to review from a publicist. Here is the duet with Antonio Zambujo, "C'est Magnifique."