Album Notes

Suze writes:
"Being a "jazz gardener" is really about the art of becoming - whether in working with plants or music or with oneself. To dig down, to nurture, to encourage growth, to thrive and flourish, and to let go and begin the cycle anew."


AMG Expert Review/ Dave Nathan:

SUSAN KREBS - "JAZZ GARDENER"
Sea Breeze Jazz

Given the wide diversity of music, arrangements, and vocal styles represented on her maiden album, Susan Krebs' "jazz garden" must be bursting with a plethora of blossoms. Although there's a touch of the blues in virtually everything she touches, Jazz Gardener sings the blues most notably on "Compost Blues" and "The Blues Are Brewin'". There are also ballads, like Irving Berlin's "What'll I Do?" in a very soulful, somber mood, which Gary Foster's doleful soprano saxophone helps to create and maintain. Contemporary pop music is represented by Kenny Rankin's "In The Name of Love", while smooth, jazzy sounds are found in "You Don't Know What Love Is". "Don't Fence Me In" is a pop blast from the past, and "Cockeyed Optimist", from the Broadway musical "South Pacific", starts off in a melancholy atmosphere before seguing into a bossa nova. Krebs can also swing, as seen on "My Foolish Heart" with Jerry Kalaf's brushes whisking the melody along.
Categorizing Krebs' voice is not easy; it is anything but prissy and dry, but filled with emotion ranging from a deep, throaty hue to a girlish, higher-pitched tone. Although there's no scatting, Krebs' vocals swoop, drop behind the beat, and generally stay just a little off center. "Skylark", more than any of the other cuts, demonstrates her vocal gymnastics and her emotional intensity. After she delivers a song, Krebs leaves nothing on the table. Her excellent diction and interpretative abilities pay tribute to her teacher, the inestimable Sue Raney.
There's outstanding help and support on this variegated agenda of tunes. Guest Gary Foster lends his alto to a rendition of "Small Day Tomorrow" and his tenor to "The Blues Are Brewin'". Louis Durra's organ and Jerry Kalaf's vibes provide a smooth background for "You Don't Know What Love Is". Durra is equally facile on the piano and provides solid accompaniment for Krebs throughout the session. Joe Romano's trumpet helps to end the album on an upbeat note with his muted contributions on "Jazz Gardener", one of two originals on the record. For most, more than one listening of "Jazz Gardener" will be necessary to fully appreciate Susan Krebs' way with music. This album is well worth the time and effort.

(Dave Nathan - AMG EXPERT REVIEW - 9/00)