You and the Night and the Music (Open Art)

Ryan and the band stop at nothing to deliver a smooth and swinging program of fourteen songs. Among items I liked best were: “You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To,” “Something Happens to Me,” “Besame Mucho,” and the title tune. “You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To” has Hendelman leading the band with perky jazz riffs in unisons as Holloway’s sax gives Ryan a fine intro. Her perfect enunciation gives sparkle to the tune, with some strong scatting. Holloway has a groovy solo, then the group continues with the opening riff and swings to the finish line. “Moonlight,” arranged by Kinnon, shows off beautiful lyrics by Alan and Marilyn Bergman, as well as Carol Robbins’ illustrious harp playing. “Wild Is the Wind” is an emotional powerhouse. The CD ends with the soft “While We’re Young,” featuring prominent guitarist Koonse.

Every song is an exciting adventure on the CD. I highly recommend the CD as one of Ryan’s best efforts. See Ryan’s websites: www.jackieryanmusic.com and www.OpenArtProductions.com .

Glenn A. Mitchell is a bassist and writer for LA Jazz Scene. This review is reprinted with permission from the August 2007 issue.