We have long placed the Grammy-winning two-woman, two man NY Voices in the same company as groups like Singers Unlimited, Manhattan Transfer, The Real Group and Vox One, that is, among the best vocal jazz groups in the world. Receiving "A Day Like This" is cause for celebration, as it has been way too long since the quartet last stepped into a recording studio. This all-accompanied collection of 14 upbeat, jazzy tunes starts out fast with Jimmy Van Heusen' "Darn that Dream," group member Peter Eldridge's "The World Keeps You Waiting" and a smoky, bluenote cover of Alan Jay Lerner's "On A Clear Day." Then we're treated to some sweet covers of Lewis & Coots' "For All We Know," Duke Ellington's "Love You Madly," Stevie Wonder's "Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing," John Coltrane's beautiful "Noticing the Moment (Moments Notice") and the wonderful, scattish, manic "Jackie" with lyrics by Annie Ross. One last favorite is a delightfully fresh and simple arrangement of Laura Nyro's "Stoned Soul Picnic." Every cut here, in fact, is a joy - the Voices have a sophisticated, effortlessly clean sound that surprises and entertains. It was worth the long wait for A Day Like This!" |