In the Moment: Live in Concert
For three decades, Dianne Reeves has been one of the most popular vocalists, thanks to her well-produced recordings and engaging live shows. On this date, recorded before an audience of 300 fans, Reeves weaves her trademark, hornlike contralto over smooth grooves that cross over mainstream jazz, contemporary pop, and world-music lines. Her band, featuring keyboardist Otmaro Ruiz andWynton Marsalis's bassist, Reginald Veal, delivers theCat Stevens-associated church hymn "Morning Has Broken,"Mongo Santamaria's classic "Afro-Blue," andCole Porter's immortal "Love for Sale." She also pays homage to jazz's Brazilian roots with her splendid, spirited readings ofAntonio Carlos Jobim's "Triste," a duet with guitarist Romero Lubambo, andMilton Nascimento's "Bridges." On her lyrical, midtempo "Come In," Reeves's cousin, keyboardistGeorge Duke, turns in a brilliant solo, and "The First Five Chapters" is an autobiographical number inspired by author Portia Nelson. But the zenith of the set is "The Best Times (Grandma's Song)," her new version of her most requested song, "Better Days," which sings the praises and virtues of family values better than our politicians.--Eugene Holley Jr.