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JUST JAZZ GUITAR Magazine
August 2001
Jill Jensen - SEEMS LIKE DREAMS
Frozen Sky
Records
PO Box 367
Sturtevant, WI 53177
In this CD, produced and arranged by guitarist Jack Grassel,
Jensen presents a clear and sometimes playful approach to seven jazz
standards. From the opening ballad, "Where or When," the
stage is set for a mellow and wistful performance in keeping with the
album title, which is taken from the opening line of the third selection,
"It Had To Be You." Jensen's voice is strong and
self-assured, and her choice of material perfectly achieves her stated
purpose, according to her liner notes.
The mid-tempo tune "You'd Be So Nice To Come Home
To" showcases the other fine instrumentalists on the album - Rick
Embach on vibes, bassist Marlene Rosenberg, and drummer Ernie Adams. The
group also adds solid backing on the jazz waltz "I'm All
Smiles."
Grassel shines throughout, demonstrating his ability to
create fine improvised single-note and chord solos and provide excellent
harmonic and rhythmic accompaniment to the vocals. The instrumental
opening of "Skylark"
reflects his interesting conceptual approach to harmonies and
substitutions. In summary: Grassel's overall skill and musical approach
are the perfect compliment to Jensen's vocal styling and phrasing. These
two have combined to create a CD with which any listener can sit back and
relax.
Reviewed by Vince Lewis, Guitar Instructor, Liberty University
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