Diana Krall has a voice that's the perfect pairing with a good glass of cabernet and a rainy night. No, this isn't rock and roll, but you'll like it - assuming you like sophisticated ballads and bossa nova rhythms.
The 12th album in an already storied career (she is, after all Mrs. Elvis Costello) is a tribute to her talent. You'll find an IPod-ready playlist of standards including, "The Boy from Ipanema", "Too Marvelous for Words," Every Time We Say Goodbye" and the title track, "Quiet Nights".
She really shines on the Burt Bacharach classic "Walk on By". Here, the lush voice breathes new life into the 60's standard.
"Make believe, that you don't see the tears. Just let me grieve in private 'cause each time I see you I break down and cry...walk on by..."
The jazz vocalist/pianist is teamed with the masterful arranger Claus Ogerman (Frank Sinatra and others) for the first time since 2002's "Live in
My only complaint (and it's a small one) is the missing trumpet from "Walk on By". Ogerman chooses to go with a more stylized version that's heavier on the strings than the original.
This is a personal interpretation and it's easy to see why Krall chose to do it this way. Her vocals don't get lost in the mix and the result - while different - is the audio equivalent of watching Audrey Hepburn as she descends the staircase in "Breakfast at Tiffany's". Elegant and perfectly charming.
If you could use a little mood music to smooth out the rough edges of a hard day, do yourself a favor and enjoy Quiet Nights.
Diana Krall - Quiet Nights
Road Readiness
No. Leave this one at home. It's a much better companion with a good glass of wine and comfortable chair.
Got that Twang Thang
No. Diana Krall has the softest, most melodic voice this side of the Pearly Gates. No twang in this thang.
Embarrass the Kids?
Ummm...maybe. But, the music is soft enough they'll probably never hear it playing.
Wish List Worthy
If you like jazz with rich, deep vocals it should be on your Amazon.com Wish List.
Where Can I Get It?
The CD is in stock at www.amazon.com for $9.99 plus shipping. The MP3 download will set you back $8.99.
Check out Diana Krall's music video of Quiet Nights. If this doesn't get you in the mood, nothing will.
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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