Dream a Little Dream
Cellar Live
In her brief liner notes to this live duo recording with alto saxophonist Cory Weeds, pianist and vocalist Champian Fulton observes that a duo is unique. It allows more freedom to play and interact with the other. "As a pianist, a duo really is one of my favourite formats. I love the looseness of it – being able to follow or lead when I want, to hear the bare bones of the song as expressed by a linear instrument, with no drums or bass to muddy the waters. It takes a special kind of horn player to be able to feel comfortable in that setting because you're so exposed." Weeds observes that they "recorded this in a house that has been the scene of many wonderful concerts over the past eight years. It is owned by two dear friends of mine, Will and Norah Johnston." The home is a comfortable setting for an intimate performance allowing, "Two good friends simply making music together: that's what it's all about."
And the friends certainly made good music today. Fulton's vocals range from hopeful to bluesy as she goes from the title track to "Fly Me to The Moon," in a rendition that is a bit more reflective than the iconic Sinatra recording. In addition to her wonderful vocal, there are some marvelous solos from both here. Fulton composed the bouncy instrumental "Lullaby For Art," which showcases both players. Another instrumental showcase for the two is the swinging rendition of "Once I Had a Secret Love." Here Weeds bop-inflected sax is accompanied by Fulton's adept use of chords.
The mix of their excellent musicianship and improvisations, and Fulton's warm, nuanced singing lead to sublime interpretations of "Darn That Dream," and "I'd Give a Dollar For a Dime." The album closes with the relaxed swing of "Save Your Love For Me," with Weeds alto lead punctuated by Fulton's piano chords. Fulton and Weeds were two good friends making some marvelous music that February 2019 night at Will and Norah's Vancouver, BC home when this was recorded. The result is this gem of a recording.
I purchased this. Here is Champian Fulton backed by a quartet including Corey Weeds performing "If I Had You."
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