Taking Sdandards Thru A New Door
author: Scott Gross
When an artist decides to tackle an album of standards, usually it’s someone like Rod Stewart or Barry Manilow doing songs from the American Songbook where the novelty is THEM singing THOSE SONGS, not the music itself... Back in December of 2006, Gigi MacKenzie (Worth), a studio singer/musician who’s worked with artists like Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Tom Scott & others, released an album of standards entitled SKYLARK... What we get are great songs like “Moonlight In Vermont”, “The Shadow Of Your Smile” & “Come Rain Or Come Shine” that have been brought thru a whole new contemporary door... The arrangements are so fresh with an up-to-date vibe and groove that you’ll find yourself going back to hear it because it’s so groundbreaking. Songs like “Cry Me A River”, “Blue Moon” and “That’s All” (a duet w/Christopher Cross) are all examples of solid songwriting that remains intact within the modern production, also handled by MacKenzie. Gigi’s voice brings both a classic and contemporary quality to these musical treasures. The one standard she leaves in it’s original form is “Stranger In Paradise,” performed as a duet with her Mother, singer Gisele MacKenzie. This disc is one of those ‘buried treasures’ that deserves more attention from people with real music appreciation... Stewart & Manilow could sure learn something from her.
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Skylark
author: Nancy Merriman
for those who love the old standards this is a great, updated CD. Gigi has great style and the duet with her Mother is great. This will be a favorite album as I love smooth jazz and the standards both.
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Smooth and Hip
author: Rowland Harris
This is a classy and stylish CD. Gigi has a great voice, and the arrangements are very contemporary, while maintaining the feel of the original tunes.
Every song is a standard, and I particularly like that an instrumental version of one or two have been interjected between the vocals.
It gives the feel of a smooth instrmental being played occasionally between vocals, much as you might get at a live club date. I suspect that was it's intention. If you like standards, you can't go wrong getting this CD.
I've played it every day since getting it. Thanks Gigi!
Give us some more!
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author: Denise
Thank you for your concern. I did receive my new CD within 2 days and I love it. Gi Gi is such a wonderful singer. I truely enjoy listening to her. I remember her mom from years ago and it is nice to hear her beautiful daughter who is equally as talented. Thank you for being so prompt with your delivery.
Sincerely
Denise Corson.
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