Album Notes

Mary Lou Williams' exclamation "You can sing!" still echoes in Susan's ear after their first musical encounter. That was the start of her transition from classical music to jazz, a career that now spans the century. Her memorable work with the Paul Jeffrey Quintet grounded her in Charlie Parker and Thelonious Monk tunes, scatting in unison or harmony to Jeffrey's sax. That era also brought opportunities to sing with jazz greats Lionel Hampton and Les Brown, and for numerous festivals and concerts, including opening for Wayne Shorter.

Currently Susan is creating her own BlueJazz sound: soulful, blues-infused renditions of standards and lesser-known gems. Her love of clever lyrics and inviting melody combined with her lush phrasing and extended range create a compelling listening experience, described by one listener as an "intelligent and passionate reading of the song." Susan continues to expand her musical directions to include songwriting and arranging.

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"Talent deserving wider recognition" is a common expression, a cliché fraught with overtones of frustration, inexplicable neglect, injustice...whatever. Happily, none of this applies to Susan Reeves. "Talent destined for wider recognition." A much more felicitous thought. And that's what applies here. I knew that immediately a couple of years ago when Susan and guitarist Dana
Chell performed live on my WSHA radio show. The voice, timing, phrasing, focus, the obviously meticulous attention to repertoire. It was obvious to me that Susan, unlike many "jazz singers," is a consummate musician. And from the first bar, Chell brought forth a reminder of why Johnny Smith was always one of my favorite guitarists.

Now, two years later, there's a newfound confidence in Susan's presentation. A confidence that can only come through working with excellent musicians who are willing to put forth the effort she expects. And I can tell you from close observation that working with Susan is no jam session. The ever increasing pace of bookings, rehearsals, constant introduction of new material into the repertoire, including originals (check out Susan's "Let Me Fall in Love" on this disc). As a musician, Susan knows exactly what she wants. What's more rare, I think she knows how to get there too. In the same sense that Betty Carter knew. A deep understanding of what nurtures her performance.

"Susan Reeves Alive" is a great snapshot of an artist well on her way to wider, richly deserved recognition. This may be your first Susan Reeves CD. It won't be your last.

Bob Rogers
WSHA-FM (88.9), Raleigh, NC
www.wshafm.org