Rachelle Ferrell©Andrea Canter

Piano jazz master Randy Weston once remarked, when speaking of the derivative nature of music, that man was first inspired to make music after listening to the birds singing in the trees. In a nod to how inspiration, not imitation, is the sincerest form of flattery, Rachelle Farrell was certainly inspired by the legendary Betty Carter. Ferrell’s capacity to take a well-known tune, establish an opening framework, completely deconstruct the composition, and explore it through waves of improvisation, then bring it home, again is reminiscent of Carter.

Last night at The Dakota Jazz Club & Restaurant, 1010 Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis, Ferrell’s musical artistry was on display on classics such as “My Funny Valentine,” “Autumn Leaves,” “Summertime,” and “Bye, Bye Blackbird.” If you were fortunate enough to have heard Carter perform, you’ll relive that experience vicariously through Ferrell; however, if you missed Carter, consider one of Farrell’s two remaining shows on Friday, June 8, as appointment concerts to hear this extraordinary singer and her very tight band.

---

Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites