Merrill, Helen
Sunnyside, 2003, CD
Instrument: Female Vocals
Issue: 10.1
Jazz Ruler Type: Ballads, Blues
Performance: 3+
Sound: 3+
Score: 
O’s Notes: Helen sings in front of Gordon Beck (p), Stephane Grappelli (v) and Steve Lacy (sax). This lineup left us excited in anticipation. Paris was the home of this recording in 1986 and some of the lyrics are sung in French. Merrill’s voice is always deep and warm with an expansive range. We really liked “When Lights Are Low” and “Solitude”. Most of the first 5 songs are duets with Gordon. But when Steve and Stephane step in, they make a strong statement.
