Wendy Jones - Perfect Dream [CD]

'Wendy Jones, a very appealing jazz vocalist from Western, North Carolina, and her quartet will release her latest CD, Perfect Dream, on June 12, 2014. All but one of the songs in her program are originals by her pianist Michael Jefry Stevens. Whether a heartfelt ballad or a saucy bluesy number, Wendy Jones is heard at her best throughout the eleven selections. Stimulating accompaniment and occasional solos are contributed by Stevens, bassist Zack Page and drummer Rick Dilling, a tight trio that is perfectly attuned to Ms. Jones' attractive phrasing. The singer's distinctive and sometimes-haunting voice proves to be very effective no matter what the mood of the piece. She gives sensitivity to each selection that she interprets and displays a complete understanding of the lyrics while swinging at every tempo. There are many highlights to Perfect Dream. "Safe In My Arms" is dramatic, "Reborn" has the feel of a bossa nova and "Gently Slip Away", written by Art Unsworth, is a romantic ballad that builds in momentum and intensity as it progresses. "Highway Blues" is not actually a blues but a swinging number that has fine bass and piano solos in addition to the spirited singing. "Only Love" has a contemporary but timeless feel while, on the wistful "Lost Love," Stevens' sophisticated piano voicings are worthy of Bill Evans. During "Losing Streak," Wendy Jones gives the listener very positive advice on how to get back on the right track. On the ballad "Borderline," as on the other selections, she displays the ability to hit unusual intervals with ease. She is particularly passionate and appealing on "Perfect Dream," a love song that has the feeling of a vintage song. The melodic and tender ballad "Shelter Me" and the heartfelt "When I First Met You" conclude the memorable program. Regularly performing with her quartet, Wendy Jones sings jazz in North Carolina but, on evidence of the music on Perfect Dream, she is destined to be much better known.' - Scott Yanow, Jazz journalist, critic, and author (Los Angeles, CA)