One More Rhyme

Album review

Lisa Kirchner doesn't have a particularly strong voice, but she uses it creatively as she applies it to the lyrics of songs she selects to sing. There are subtle renditions of such tunes as "Autumn Leaves" where she plays with the melody and the phrasing, causing a novel interpretation of this and the other classic standards on this CD. The CD also lists two originals and other material that Kirchner addresses in her unique offbeat manner. The medley of two Brazilian tunes -- and neither one of them written by Jobim! -- "Coraçao Vagabundo/Berimbau" have catchy rhythms on which the singer performs vocal magic. Further evidence of the different approach Kirchner takes with the music comes through on "But Beautiful" where she takes the words at one pace while guitarist Ron Jackson plays at a slight faster tempo making for an interesting setting. As do many of her contemporaries, Kirchner uses different sets of musicians for this session. Accordionist Walter Kuehr shows up to give a French bistro flavor to "Joana Francesa." This relaxed mood continues on the Kirchner-composed "One More Rhyme," a story filled with melancholia and musically well-put together. James Weidman is given a good deal of individual time at the piano on this track. The singer's view of "All or Nothing at All," includes a slight Latin beat and matches performances of this song by such geniuses of the vocal arts as Sarah Vaughan, Chris Connor, and June Christy. Kirchner's voice and expression comes closest to a combination of Christy and Sheila Jordan with a touch of Edith Piaf. But it's the sensitivity to music and lyrics and the way she works with her sidemen that brings her version to the level of these other singers. Kirchner manages to successfully combine ingredients of country and blues on "Red Sails." Kirchner's father is Leon Kirchner, an important American classical composer having been awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music for one of his works. This album is awesome evidence that his daughter has taken full advantage of the formidable musical genes he passed on. One More Rhyme is highly recommended.
© Dave Nathan /TiVo