Now in its fourth year together, New-Jersey-based all-female jazz sextet Key of She bring us a poised, confident 2nd CD (their first, the excellent "Our First Time"). Strong vocal percussion, shared solo duties and sheer vocal talent give this group a rare full, rich sound that was not lost on the audience and judges at the 2002 New York Harmony Sweeps Regional, where they were awarded 2nd place and Audience Favorite. After that they opened for the late Ray Charles, and appeared on the national Jane Pauley show. There are 12 songs, in genres that vary from jazz and salsa to pop classics. A sexy, rhythmic cover of "Something to Talk About," "In These Shoes" is a hilarious send-up of the whole Romance Novel mindset; and the jazz classic "Fever" has some surprising, refreshing vocal sampling. Sting's "Every Little Thing (He) Does Is Magic," is, in fact, magic. Del Shannon's pop classic "Runaway" has a hot, funky arrangement and a sweet lead, the eternal question "Why Haven't I Heard From You," the Gershwins' classic "S'Wonderful," a bluenote cover of "S'Wonderful," Fleetwood Mac's "Warm Ways," David Cassidy's "I Think I Love You," and the funny "Bald Headed Men" top off the program. Key of She has a bunches of vocal talent, humor and joy of singing, and it adds up to a winning, highly entertaining CD! |