Album Notes

"In the 20 years of singing jazz, I have lived and performed all over the world. Much of my professional work has been as a solo singer/pianist. For this, my first CD, I've had the enormous privilege of being accompanied by one of the greatest living jazz pianists, George Cables.

"A Felicidade" is Portuguese for "happiness." Each of the songs on the CD has a meaning, a face, or a place associated with the lyrics. They express different aspects my personality, life philosophy, and love of languages and travel. American standards have been the foundation of the repertoire throughout my career. I have included the verses to each of them, giving them their full due. The four Brazilian songs communicate the deep connection I feel for a culture where music is such an essential part of everyone's life." - Emerson Pirot

George Cables has performed and recorded with some of the greatest jazz musicians of our time, including: Joe Henderson, Roy Haynes, Max Roach, Art Blakey, Sonny Rollins, Freddie Hubbard, Woody Shaw, Sarah Vaughn, Tony Williams, Bobby Hutcherson and Dizzy Gillespie, Dexter Gordon, Art Pepper, Freddie Hubbard, Woody Shaw, Bobby Hutcherson and many others. He is noted for his fresh interpretations of classic compositions and his innovative style of writing.

George creates a magical mood with the opening vamp of a Jobim waltz. The music moves seamlessly through swing tunes, ballads, bossa novas, a French chanson, a Spanish anthem. Emerson 's refreshing and sophisticated vocals deliver the lyrics with an honest intimacy. The piano solos are often complete choruses. There is a lot to listen to here! The subtext of the 25 year friendship between these two brings a sparkle to every song. George's presence infuses an elegant artistry into this inviting, atmospheric CD. As a bonus Tony Dumas (bass) and Lorca Hart (drums) play on four of the tracks. The presence of this great rhythm section animates the latin tunes and evokes a mystical perspective on the contemporary "Falling Grace."