Pianist/arranger David ian seems to be inspired by holidays. He’s released a couple Christmas albums, and now he’s upping the ante with a tip of the arrow to Valentine’s Day. He mixes a trio setting with guest vocals, with the instrumentals revealing a hip take of “Autumn Leaves,” a classy and sublime “Stella by Starlight” and an elegant “Emily.” Vocals include a Blossom Dearie influenced Acacia on “ Solitude,” a husky Chet Bakered Kevin Max on “My Funny Valentine” as well as a sweet toned Norah Jones imbibed Talitha Walters-Wulfing on a rollicking “Summertime.” Gospel vocalist Russ Taff sounds convincing on “Sweet Bye and Bye” on a disc that is as well fitting as a shark skin suit.
Prescott Records