Jazz Improv's New York Jazz Guide
April 2007
Kudos to Veronica Nunn for the fresh ideas that she’s introduced
into her standards album. She brings each gem to life, singing the familiar
refrains with respect while coloring them vividly with the paintbrush
of a creative artist. We’re able to recognize our grandmother’s
songs clearly with compassion, while coming into contact with African,
Brazilian and Afro-Cuban rhythms that enhance the flavor.
Nunn sings standards
with a warm composure that leads to a convincing argument. She delivers.
Her duet with bassist Jennifer Vincent on “Honeysuckle
Rose” casts a shadow far and wide. Alone with pianist Travis Shook
on “I Hadn’t Anyone Till You,” she reaches out and
grabs our emotions. She makes these standard songs her own, as she dances
casually from tradition to the leading edge.
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“ That’s All” features a hot Afro-Cuban arrangement
with syncopated piano and energized percussion. African drummer Sogbety
Diomande joins the quartet for “Thou Swell,” creating a firestorm
of activity. They pump new life into each of these standards. “A
Foggy Day” features congas in a lovely outing designed to combine
tradition with individuality.
For much of the session, Nunn prefers to
interpret these songs the way they were originally conceived: with piano
trio and a lot of love. Those timeless lyrics
relate to all of us. On “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love,” for
example, she communicates with her audience as an old friend who longs for your
attention. At once familiar and yet complete with the trappings of a creative
artist, Standard Delivery has something for everyone.
–
Jim Santella
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