Max Jazz is a relatively new label, but I've already come to love it for its packaging. It's one of the few labels that doesn't mess around with those breakable plastic cases. Instead, the CD is enclosed in a cardboard case that simply folds in thirds. The jazz singers Max Jazz spotlights, too, are a terrific bunch. Recent releases have included recordings by Asa Harris and Christine Hitt.
Stallings is a robust, hard-swinging, entertaining singer.
In other words, we happily run the gamut of decades and styles. It's as pretty a set as I can remember. This utterly charming third CD by the Push Stars points the spotlight directly at the songwriting talents of Buffalo native Chris Trapper. The guitarist's comfortable and non-intrusive vocal style makes it easy to enjoy the clever lyrics painting his whimsical and touching portraits of life. Instead, he chalks it up to people just trying too hard.