Vocalist Deborah Shulman keeps it soft and gentle here on this collection with supple support by Terry Trotter/p, Larry Koonse/g, Ken Wild/b and Jo La Barbera/dr. She plays it smart by using her torchy voice for tunes that have not worn out their welcome. A clever selection of Tom Waits’ “Shiver Me Timbers” has her joined with Koonse’s acoustic guitar, while Trotter’s reflective piano glows on “This Hotel.” The mood here is delicate and quiet, as on a dainty read of “A Sleepin’ Bee” and a soft shoe brush work by La Barbera on a waltzing “Sometime Ago.” Songs that sound like flickering candles are emphasized here.
Summit Records