Here’s a tribute that’s going to surprise you. Trumpeter Darren Barrett came late in the game in terms of appreciating the sound and style of Amy Winehouse, but since then has been so enthralled that he’s made a jazz/world album dedicated to her. It has him along with a handful of keyboardists, a co uple guitarists, drummer Anthony Toth, bassist Alexander Toth and vibist Simon Moullier while Joanna Teters handles the vocals.
The reggae world rocks a bit on “Rehab” and “Tears Dry” while Teters’ vocals handle the old doo wopper “Cupid” with delicacy. Barrett’s horn glistens on “Our Day Will Come” and “To Know Him Is To Love Him.” The only gripe is that the ten songs are 2-3 minutes in length, not giving sufficient time for the ideas to necessarily complete. Still, an impressive concept.