Album Notes

Twice As Nice, the new CD from Karla Harris and Tom Kennedy, is really two great stories …

~It’s a tribute to some of the most memorable melodies and lyrics ever written -- songs from seven legendary composers of the great jazz and pop standards, with two classic tunes from each.

~It’s also about the collaboration of two artists who share a deep appreciation for this music and a love for performing it.

Those artists, internationally acclaimed jazz bassist Tom Kennedy and popular vocalist Karla Harris, met in 2004. Tom was off the road and back in his native St. Louis, playing a gig in the city’s celebrated Forest Park one evening when he met Karla, also on the engagement.

Well-regarded locally, Karla had recently re-entered the jazz scene after several years away. Hearing her sing standards such as Good Morning Heartache and Moonglow that night, Tom recalls being impressed by a “refreshing lyricism and deep spirit emanating from the vocal mic.”

Karla, for her part, knew of Tom’s reputation as “one of the best bass players on the planet," amazing on both the acoustic and electric bass. A first-call musician, Tom has worked with jazz greats such as James Moody, Freddie Hubbard, David Sanborn, Stan Kenton, Patti Austin, Maureen McGovern and Rosemary Clooney. As an integral part of the Dave Weckl Band, with whom he writes, records and tours, his fans are worldwide. LA Weekly writes that Tom's work is "nothing short of inspiring" and Downbeat Magazine calls him a "true virtuoso."

When Tom suggested Karla take part in a CD project he’d been planning, it was the right opportunity at the right time. Their musical rapport and shared vision for performing this music is evident in each track.

Twice As Nice glides between jazz and sophisticated pop standards in a rich collection that includes works from composers such as Richard Rodgers, Cy Coleman, Burt Bacharach and Johnny Mandel. Tom performs with the best feel in the business on his 250-year-old acoustic bass, supplying both the emotive touches and acrobatic, horn-like solos for which he’s known.

Karla, with a clear, soul-tinged delivery that expresses the lyrics with strength, quiet vulnerability or refined fun, is a natural match with the music. Jazz radio host Ross Gentile describes her approach as "sassy and sensitive ... a singer for all seasons who makes every song memorable."

Stylish arrangements, created by Tom, brush this varied collection with a fresh touch, making the standards anything but. Oscar Hammerstein’s “Lover Come Back to Me,” treats you to a prime performance of Tom’s artistry, showcasing his artistic nuance, speed and wit in an amazing acoustic solo. The Grammy-winning “Wives and Lovers” from Bacharach is cool and swinging with soulful sax by Jason Swagler, while Rogers and Hart’s “Lover” gets a rhythmic twist and scintillating sax solos from Gary Meek (of the Dave Weckl Band).

“The Look of Love” turns haunting with Tom on electric bass and Karla’s longing vocals, and Ray Kennedy (well-known pianist for jazz guitarist/vocalist John Pizarelli) makes you feel like you’re there with his bluesy take on Harold Arlen’s “One For My Baby.” Johnny Mandel’s wistful “You Are There” and “Where Do You Start” set a poignant mood; bass and vocal duets “On the Sunny Side of the Street” by Jimmy McHugh and another Rodgers composition, “Happy Talk,” add a light touch … and much more.

Young pianist Kara Baldus adds dynamic touches throughout while drummer Miles Vandiver provides a consistently supportive spirit and swing.

With Twice As Nice, Tom and Karla celebrate a golden era of songwriting with all who appreciate the qualities that make this music unforgettable. Fans of acoustic bass, vocal jazz and the Great American songbook will love Twice As Nice.

For more information on these artists, visit www.tomkennedymusic.com and www.karlaharris.com.

A PORTION OF THE PROCEEDS from Twice As Nice go to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America and the National Hospice Foundation.