Samuels, Michelle
Samuels, 2004, CD
Instrument: Female Vocals
Issue: 10.3
Jazz Ruler Type: Ballads, Blues
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: Michelle has a definitive nasal character that defines her signature. She projects her voice like a stage actress and conveys the emotions that make her a part of the songs. Her band is very good, especially pianist Adam Asarnow who plays several dynamic solos during the set. Paul Meyers (g), Steve La Spina (b) and Rich De Rosa make up the rest of the band. The sign of a true singer is one who can shine with minimal or no instrumentation. Samuels fares well on “Hum Drum Blues”, a duet with DeRosa where she scats and sings with confidence. We also liked her cover of “My Foolish Heart??” on a set that makes us anxious to hear more of her.
