Jazz Police - When The Night Is New—Debut Recording From Abigail Riccards

Even though Jazz vocalist Abigail Riccards is still in the beginning stages of her career, she has already been the recipient of some significant awards, including Downbeat’s Outstanding Collegiate Vocalist (2002) and, along with her bandmates, Downbeat’s Outstanding Collegiate Vocal Jazz Group (2004). Demonstrating all the sensibilities of a seasoned jazz singer, Riccards, who has performed with the likes of George Duke, Mulgrew Miller, and numerous other noteworthy artists, will soon no doubt have many critical accolades to add to her press kit with the December 3rd release of her glorious dbut CD, When The Night Is New (Jazz Excursion Records).

The album consists of twelve love songs, comprised for the most part of classic tunes or standards, the exception being her interpretation of Sting’s “I Was Brought To My Senses.” Her sensitive retelling of Sting’s ballad provides clear proof that Riccards is a storyteller par excellence. Her phrasing and inflection bring the lyrics to life and the romantic tales unfold before us. David Berkman provides a great piano accompaniment and Lage Lund turns in a solid performance on guitar.

Opening the CD with Burke and Van Heusen’s “But Beautiful,” Riccards’ contemplative tone is complemented by the warm, mellow refrain of Ron Horton’s flugelhorn that brings a sense of fullness to this song. Horton also plays the trumpet on this track. Riccards is in good company selecting this song for her album, a piece that was recorded by such legendary vocalists as Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday and Barbra Streisand. Far be it from me to make suggestions about my readers’ love lives, but a little bit of mistletoe, a warm glowing fireplace and Abigail Riccards singing “But Beautiful” might just be (wink) a great combination.

A song that really caught my ear because of the innovative approach taken by percussionist Rogerio Boccato is “The Very Thought Of You.” Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition winner, Norwegian guitarist Lage Lund’s elegant guitar playing alone makes this song worth listening to. Once again Riccards’ emotive vocals pull at the heartstrings. The CD also contains some good swinging tunes such as “East Of The Sun” and “The Thrill Is Gone,” both of which Riccards delivers in fine fashion. Berkman’s organ chops are a treat to listen to.

Generations have come and gone since Irving Kahal and Sammy Fain first introduced us to the 1938 song “I’ll Be Seeing You,” a tune whose lyrics have become a refrain for friends or lovers parted by distance and time. The longing in Riccards’ voice will be sure to stir fond memories for many listeners. In a time when America finds itself at war, it is poignant that a song that was popular during the Second World War has resurfaced. As Christmas approaches, Riccards’ gentle vocals will no doubt, for some, prompt warm memories of Christmases past.

When the Night Is New will be officially released with a celebration at Jazz Standard in Manhattan on December 3 (www.jazzstandard.com). More about Abigail Riccards at www.abigailriccards.com