Paula Lammers
A Blanket of Blue
© 2005 Nightingale Jazz/Paula Lammers (789577200227)
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The sweet, clear voice of Paula Lammers brings the lyrics to life in this album of brilliantly arranged standards. A must-have CD featuring fabulous musicians and a warm, inviting voice.
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Minneapolis-based jazz vocalist Paula Lammers’ sound has been described by one listener as “delectable… The purity and the flawless pitch give me goose bumps! I find the same color quality, the simplicity and perfection in her presentation that I heard for many years in Rosemary Clooney.”
Over the past several years, Paula has emerged as a significant talent in the Minnesota jazz community. She has appeared at numerous venues, including the Artists’ Quarter, Sophia, The Times, Dakota County Music Cafe, and Downtowner Woodfire. As the vocalist for River City Jazz Orchestra, she appears at O'Gara's, Lake Harriet, the Como Pavilion, Centennial Lakes Amphitheater, Staring Lake Park, and more. Paula makes frequent guest appearances with local big bands. In 2005, she teamed up with vocalist Reeves Cary to form the vocal duo “Girl ‘n’ Boy Singer”. She fronts a nine piece band called “Cloud Nine”. She also has a long-standing gig aboard the Minnesota Zephyr, entertaining passengers in a vocal quartet singing songs of the 1940’s era.
Paula appeared at the 2006 Grand Marais Jazz Festival as the featured vocalist and as a clinician. She conducts vocal workshops and maintains an active private voice teaching schedule in addition to her performing career.
In April and May of 2005 Paula recorded her first professional CD, A Blanket of Blue, with some of the finest talents in the music scene: Billy Peterson, Peter Schimke, Clay Moore, Kenny Horst, and Gary Berg. It was co-produced by Darren Rust and Billy Peterson, and received impressive reviews from national sources. It was selected for the Top 10 List for 2005 by Live 365, an internet radio station based out of Syracuse, NY. Karl Stober from Jazz Review sums it up: “...one can foresee an intoxicating adventure ahead in the industry for Ms. Lammers...this young sound has the potential to really step out in front of the pack in the independent world. Ms. Lammers’ panache and versatility can catapult her far if she allows the force of her talent to take control. The audience will want to follow her path as she grows.”
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A Great CD
author: Bill Thomas WVTF,Roanoke, VirginiaWhat a great CD. (Her) voice is wonderful and just floats and winds it's way through the music.
Incredible music
author: Andrea Canter, Jazz PoliceIncredible music, indeed. Lammer’s “easy-to-listen-to” soprano has a warm tone, crisp articulation, true pitch, and not a hint of shrill in her top notes. If any comparison is valid, perhaps it’s with Jane Monheit, less theatrical but in the same vein of gentle persuasion, warmly charming, lighting the tracks less with fire and more with glowing embers. Frequently Paula stretches the vowel, giving the music a silken legato that makes the occasional clipped phrase more effective. The sound quality from Winterland Studios (engineered by Brian Johnson and Darren Rust, mixed by Rust), is clean, every instrument so well articulated with the intimacy of live performance that at times I started to applaud a solo. And while Blanket of Blue was recently named to the Top Ten list for 2005 by Smooth Jazz and More, this is "smooth" only in the quality of the voice; this is not "Jazz Lite."
Delightful recording!
author: John GilbertClarity of tone and an understanding that enunciation is a key element in vocal jazz sums it up for Paula Lammers. She has selected some gems in this album which is a huge plus. Lammers is backed by musicians who are sensitive to her modus operandi and this further adds to this delightful recording. "Isn't It Romantic" is thought of a tune that gains new life in weddings, but this song has a great melody which makes it a true classic. Paula Lammers sings the verse, not often heard which adds a new twist. Lammers simply sings the song in tune with grace and elegance and it works beautifully. "Too Close For Comfort" Gently swinging in a bright tempo, Lammers' kicks it up a notch with the cool tenor sax of Gary Berg adding a nice element in the background and he also solos lucidly with fine ideation. Peter Schimke at the keyboards ably comps and jazzes things up a bit in his soliloquy. Nice tunes, a fine vocalist with good musicians always makes for fine listening and this record is no exception.
Loved it
author: RCHThis CD is very impressive and it turned out to be even better than I had expected. I bought this album for a gift, but I loved it so much that I had to buy another for myself! I'll be looking forward to the next album...thanks
Crisp charismatic tones
author: Karl Stober EjazznewsCrisp and charismatic tones often single out a select vocalist from any genre. The delivery and clarity of a melody is so vital to the feel of a tune. However, these qualities are so very often hidden in the world of independent artists yet exciting when unearthed. Such is the case with Paula Lammers with her new release A Blanket of Blue launched by Nightingale Jazz in 2005. This being her unveiling one can foresee an intoxicating adventure ahead in the industry for Ms. Lammers. What works in this offering are not only the vocals of Ms. Lammers but also the arrangements that adorn the lyrics. The composition is befitting each cut and nicely presented for the listeners approved. In the whole scope of the menu put forth by Ms. Lammers two cuts truly stand out, although all the presentations are worthy of numerous spins. “In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning” a Mann classic is arranged in such a way that the music brings out the best of Ms. Lammers tones. Note on this piece the guitar expertise of Clay Moore so set back and serene but able to come to the forefront with precise sound quality. I always like to bring attention to an original spin when a new talent arises and in this case “Goodbye…again” is under the spotlight. Arranged by Peter Schimke and Jeanne Arland Peterson it examines the angelic reference to lost romance. The Lammers tones are sweet and sensitive in nature with the keyboards of Schimke creating the solemn mood, a sensitive piece of jazz. Out of the gate, this young sound has the potential to really step out in front of the pack in the independent world. Ms. Lammers panache and versatility can catapult her far if she allows the force of her talent to take control. The audience will want to follow her path as she grows. As for her debut offering, A Blanket of Blue is a fine start and pleasant listen to that entire jazz populace who takes the time to experience fine young talent.
Lammers is a surprise and delight, and this one is highly recommended
author: Dorothy Hill JazzNowThis CD of standards features the soprano vocals of Paula Lammers, who exhibits a bell-like clarity to great effect. She knows her way around a song and deftly milks ballads with imagination. On the covers of "I Thought about You," and "The Moon and I," Lammers negotiates the lyrics of these pop ballads with style. "Isn't It Romantic?" is distinctive for its sheer melodic beauty and the seductive piano styling of Schimke and sweet saxophone solo of Berg. "Honeysuckle Rose" is a sultry take with Lammers breathing vitality into each phrase. Ballads "Gentle Rain" and "In he Wee Small Hours of the Morning" are exquisitely rendered. Lammers delivers "Too Close for Comfort" with ease and assurance. On the one original, "Goodbyeagain," Lammers stretches out the phrases in a yearning that is winsome. The rendition of "More" is outstanding; Lammers opens with the original Italian lyrics and concludes in English. The title cut of "Blanket of Blue" will have you swaying to the melody and the fetching vocal treatment by Lammers. Every one of the eleven cuts on this CD is superb. The well-seasoned musicians are supportive without intruding on the vocals. Lammers is a surprise and delight, and this one is highly recommended. Wow! is all I can say for this effort which will be embraced by those who still enjoy vocals warm and tender with feeling.
Well worth searching for
author: All Music Guide-Scott YanowBased in Minnesota, Paula Lammers has a very warm voice that is particularly effective on ballads. Throughout this set of mostly standards (other than her original "Goodbye...Again"), she also sounds lightly swinging on the occasional medium-tempo piece. Accompanied by five excellent Minnesota-area musicians, including bassist Billy Peterson, who arranged most of the pieces, Paula Lammers shows that there is still significant talent to be found outside of the major metropolitan areas. Well worth searching for.
No histrionics here
author: Aaron Fensterheim, Award Winning Jazz Radio Producer/AnnouncerThough operatically trained there are no histrionics here. Paula uses her great range to present a beautifully balanced set of standards. Her one original tune, "Goodbye...again" shows a talent for composing.
Will wrap you up and make you warm inside!
author: Improvijazzation Nation, Rotcod ZzajPaula Lammers - A BLANKET OF BLUE: and that is what it IS, folks! Definitely laid-back, pleasant vocals that will wrap you up and make ya' warm (in your heart). Debut releases are always fun, 'coz th' energies are KICKIN', and that certainly holds true for Paula's "on" vocal style. What you'll notice right away is how clear the words she sings are... and not in a "high style", either... you know, some singers kind of "affect" their language and come across sounding really phony... that's not true with Ms. Lammers at all! She's purely original in her presentation and performance. Most of the tracks are covers... so, for her next outing, hope she'll include (at least) a few more originals... the one she does include - "Goodbye...Again" - is my favorite cut on the CD, in fact. She'll reach right out and touch your soul, to be sure... excellent singer, excellent music, excellent album. This one gets a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for any listener who wants to get "wrapped up" in Paula's beautiful "blanket of blue". I'm impressed, and you will be too!
Most Highly Recommended
author: Smooth Jazz and More, Michael James...Her first CD is a mix of American Standards and Jazz Ballads that will satisfy the music lover. I enjoyed the tracks, "I Thought About You" and "Gentle Rain". She has a voice that I can describe as a cross between pop greats Karen Carpenter and Anita O'Day. Her sound is very light and lovely to listen to. If you're looking for a singer that won't overwhelm your senses, consider listening to this up and coming songstress.
hauntingly beautiful
author: Jazz PoliceJoin Lammers and her special guests of seasoned professionals as they lead you through a night of wonderful arrangements and renditions of the classic standards that make the rich heritage of vocal jazz. Lammers masterfully inspired release called, “A Blanket of Blue, ” consisting of 11 selections total, 10 beautifully arranged jazz standard selections and 1 hauntingly beautiful original “Goodbye…again, ” penned by Lammers and co-arranged by Peter Schimke and Jeanne Arland Peterson is the culmination of many hours of performance and dedication to the vocal jazz genre.
A strong debut
author: Dan McClenaghan-All About JazzVocalist Paula Lammers, a music major at Gustavus Adolphus College and holder of a Masters degree in vocal performance from the University of Minnesota, almost gave up performing to devote her energies to teaching. Then the Minnesota Zephyr, a dinner excursion train, clanged into town. She got a job there, riding the rails and singing songs from the forties. A performer was reborn. Lammers' debut, A Blanket of Blue, digs into the Great American Songbook with style. “I Thought About You,” “Isn't it Romantic,” “Honeysuckle Rose,” “In the Wee Small Hours of the Mornings,” and “Too Close for Comfort” will be familiar to any music fan worth his or her salt; and Lammers and her band—a crack quintet—give these tried and trues and new shine. Clarity of tone seems Lammers most distinguishing vocal characteristic, along with a seemingly effortless delivery. Her take on “Honeysuckle Rose” has a bouncy feeling, with pianist Peter Schimke opening up with a Waller-esque verve. Lammers' knowing take on this classic, especially her sly and sultry turn of phrase on “when I'm taking sips, from your tasty lips, seems the honey fairly drips,” highlights the song's playfully salacious mood and just might send you off for a cold shower. Ten of the eleven tunes here are covers, and Lammers takes a turn at tunesmithing on ”Goodbye... Again,” a beautifully melancholy ballad that showcases her crystalline voice nicely. A strong debut; it makes me want to jump on that Minnsota Zephyr.
Soothing to the soul!
author: Joanna JahnWhen I heard the first song on A Blanket Of Blue, I was impressed by its clarity and honesty. It's soothing to the soul! A perfect CD for a cozy night by the fire.
Beautifully done!
author: Sue NaussThis CD has quickly become one of my favorites. The talent shown by Paula and the accompanying musicians is amazing. Anyone who loves Jazz and Standards should own this one. Beautifully done!
Stays interesting to the end!
author: Jody McCormickI don't know how she does it, but this amazing new, fresh artist keeps you interested to the very end of her new CD. Paula demonstrates variety, depth, ingenuity, and warmth in this collection of jazz music. It is clear, as one listens, this singer is passionate about her craft and has taken great care to produce a masterpiece worthy of her incredible talent. It's a must-have for your jazz collection.
Straight-Ahead, Sweet, and Solid
author: Gary BrownBlanket of Blue delivers from start to finish... it's very quickly turned into one of my "car cd's" that's on permanent rotation in the player! Great arangements really make "Blue" a success. As a jazzer, one thing I really like is that Paula is confident enough in her talents (which are many!) to let the sidemen on the CD have their place in the sun, too. There aren't too many performers that let THAT happen. Great Disk!
Paula's CD showcases a lovely voice and talented players -- a must!
author: Karen LundquistIt's not often that I find a CD that I can confidently recommend to anyone -- jazz neophyte, sophisticate, or anyone who enjoys a beautiful voice. Paula's hits the mark. She includes a great variety of classic jazz pieces, rendered with confidence and subtlety, sweet and smooth. I can't wait for the next one! !
A Blanket of Blue "Gets it"
author: Nicholas Scheffo Fulvue Drive-in.comSo many name singers have been doing entire cover albums of standards that it becomes tired and annoying very quickly. A few, like Cyndi Lauper, have at least tried something different, while Linda Ronstadt proved this was viable over two decades ago. In most cases, it is admission of boredom, desperation and the like for artists who are not having hits anymore. Paula Lammers is an unknown, and her A Blanket Of Blue is the opposite of most of those star projects. She loves the music, is a fresh name and voice, and what a nice voice it is...Like the few female vocalists who know how to make this work, part of anyone singing these songs is not to lean on them as if you are bored or act like you are above such work. We won’t name names (as that could go on for awhile), but Miss Lammers could teach most of these big names a thing or two. The vocals are full, consistent and (especially important to work like this) warm. These songs are about classiness and a finer school of thought, emotional depth and wit. They are not just something to cover to cover up (an artist’s) shortcomings or boredom. When done right, they are great entertainment and A Blanket Of Blue gets it. The PCM 2.0 Stereo is as full and warm as the performances, from the vocalist to the musicians. As often is the case in the Jazz Vocal genre, recording fidelity still means something and you certainly get that here, arranged by Billy Peterson and produced by Darren Rust and Mr. Peterson. That makes the album a winner for those who like this kind of music. Quality is its own distinction.
Wow! Nightingale Indeed!
author: Stewart CramerWhere have you been? This is a special collection that you should run out and grab. Put it on while entertaining and keep the cover handy for all the questions you'll get. Thanks for putting it together Paula Lammers!
An honesty and clean delivery that, for many singers, is so elusive
author: Kurt KolstadMy first reaction was one of delight...and an ineffable sort of joy that I don't often experience. Her voice is delectable. The purity and the flawless pitch give me goosebumps! I find the same color quality, the simplicity and perfection in her presentation that I heard for many years in Rosemary Clooney.