THE GRAND ENCOUNTER (by Dianne Reeves)

SUMMARY:                             RUNNING TIME: 50:00 Min.

In 1996, Capitol Records’ Blue Note imprint released jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves’ ninth studio album.  The ten tracks are:

                               Running Time:  

1. “Old Country”             5:01
2. “Cherokee”                 3:22
3. “Besame Mucho”        8:12
4. “Let Me Love You”     3:46
5. “Tenderly”                  4:54
6. “After Hours”             6:06
7. “Ha!”                        3:27
8. “Some Other Spring”   5:24
9. “Side By Side”            5:08
10. “I’m Okay”                4:59.

REVIEW:

Revisiting old school-style jazz (i.e. the Mel Tormé-like Track # 7 and Track # 9’s standard cover), Dianne Reeves infuses the genre with vibrant energy, along with several new tunes.  Among them, “After Hours” is a welcome lounge-style track that spells out the album’s timeless ambiance.  With her band’s reliable support, Reeves ensures that the classy Grand Encounter delivers a gem for jazz enthusiasts.

PACKAGING:

The CD has a sturdy casing.  Including some neat black-and-white backstage photos, the insert booklet has the standard credits and thank-you’s. 

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                     8½ Stars