Here’s a brilliant idea that vocalist Alexis Cole pulls off successfully. She delves into the compositions of Paul Simon, but not the usual 60s material when he and Art Garfunkel had hits with “Bridge Over Troubled Water” or “Mrs. Robinson.” Instead, she focuses on Simon’s solo career, and even better, makes it a percussive affair with the work of Jeff Haynes and Gus Courtsunis adding textures to the loping grooves of Marvin Sewell/g and Mark Peterson/b with Julie Harris’ flute being the sole melodic instrument to act as a complement.
Cole’s voice is cool and introspective, but not without expression, as she delivers a simple read of “Dazzling Blue” over the West African rhythms. She shows long shadows on the reflective “Jonah” and goes innocent and wide eyed on “St. Judy’s Comet” while Evan Sundquist’s extra voice brings extra drapery to the chamber. The mood throughout is calm and sensitive, from the bossa nova’d “Love” ballad to the reverent “Quiet” you get a sense of self reflection. Still hazy after all these years.
Chesky Records