Vocalist Kurt Elling continues to create a unique catalogue of moods and tributes. This time around her collects various pieces or “charmers” (as he calls them) that he uses on the road in various countries as encores. Songs in German, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Italian, Polish and English/UK are presented here in various environments, but all linked but a mood of wanderlust. Intimate piano and vocals on “After The Door” find Elling in rich deep tone, while he rolls the rrrrs like a local on “Si Te Contara.” A dash of Scotland has Elling with a Brogue on “Loch Tay Boat Song” and he reaches a bit high on “La Vie En Rose” with Carolina Strassmeyer’s alto sax. Sara Gazarek does some sharing of the vocals on a very effective “Voce Ja Foi A Bahia” and deep thoughts are reflected on a folksy “Where The Streets Have No Name.” Elling’s tone is rich and comforting, and when he goes down deep he comes up with black gold. A rewarding voyage.
Concord Music Group