Here are a couple of ladies with intriguing voices. Gather ‘round!
Maria Damore has a clear and polished Broadway sound to her delivery. Even better, her range is effortless as she swings and coos with Andy Roberts/key, Steve Meashey/b, Leon Jordan/dr, David Cullen/g and Tom Strohman/reeds on a collection of standards. She shows some moxie with a clever read of the 70s hit “Vincent” and makes it work well. Her intro to “Stardust” glows like a clear night, and she knows how to sizzle during “What A Little Moonlight Can Do” with Strohman’s sax cantering along. Lot’s to like here!
Emi Takada also tackles the standards, backed by a trio of Bob Henschen/p, Aric Nitzberg/ b and Tim Solook/dr. Her timing is impeccable as on a sensuous read of “Agua de Beber” and a dramatic “It’s All Right With Me.” Her accent creates a bit of a rounding of the edges to her delivery, adding some spice to “You and the Night and the Music” while “Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me” is warm and cozy. Soft hands are felt here.