Cole, Freddy
High Note, 2010, CD
Instrument: Male Vocals
Issue: 16.4
Jazz Ruler Type: Ballads, Blues
Performance: 4
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: We met Freddy early in the decade before his show at the old Jazz Showcase in Chicago. He was cool, relaxed and peaceful. That poise is present in his music accentuated by a warm baritone, great pitch and romantic material. On this outing, Cole is focused on the music of Mr. B. The late Billy Eckstine was a masterful crooner, close friend, mentor and a major influence on Freddy. “Jelly Jelly” is one of the landmark blues ballads among the dozen gems celebrated here. Other highlights include “Pretty One”, “Tender Is The Night” and “Portrait”. Coles band includes Houston Person (sax) and John Di Martino (p) helping make this a fine effort and yet another successful recording by Cole, still in peak form.
Publicist: Jazz Depot
