Pianist Jim Clayton strikes back to the original reason people are attracted to jazz: they like the tune and want to sing along with the melody. Taking a cue from his daughter’s taste and likes, he brings together Peter Harris/b, Jason Marsalis/dr and Bill Summers/perc to crate music that mixes well accessibility with artistic vision. Clever readings of kid’s show songs such as “Grouch Anthem” and “Sing” will bring a smile to your face and make you wonder why no one else has gone to the “Sesame-Mr. Rogers Songbook.” Marlon Jordan brings in his trumpet for a lovely reading of “Autumn” and a swinging “Inside Straight,” while Clayton’s hands dance on “The West Wing-Main Title” and “Little Leo.” The fact that his daughter knows and enjoys Basie’s “Flight of the Foo Birds” shows that she’s in a happy environment. Lucky kid!
Clay-Tone Records
www.songsmydaughterknows.com