Let’s Face the Music: The Songs of Irving Berlin

RELEASE
May 27, 1997
LABEL
Concord Jazz
GENRES
Vocal Music, Vocal Jazz, Traditional Pop, Standards

Album Review

Susannah McCorkle, who consistently brings out new meanings in the lyrics she interprets, performs 16 Irving Berlin songs (complete with verses and sometimes lesser-known stanzas) on this delightful set. There is solo space for trumpeter Gregory Gisbert, trombonist Conrad Herwig, young tenor great Chris Potter and altoist Jerry Dodgion; the arrangements by Rich DeRosa are surprisingly modern, and McCorkle is heard in prime form. Among the many highlights are a wistful rendition of "Let's Face the Music and Dance," and a sensuous "Cheek to Cheek," "Let Yourself Go," and a wonderful closer, a version of "Waiting at the End of the Road" on which the singer is accompanied only by the rhythm guitar of Al Gafa. Although this interpretation of "There's No Business Like Show Business" (greatly slowed down and surprisingly touching) is not quite as classic as McCorkle's version of a decade earlier, this is overall a highly recommended set by a superb singer.
Scott Yanow, Rovi

Track Listing

  1. I'd Rather Lead a Band
  2. Let's Face the Music and Dance
  3. Isn't This a Lovely Day?
  4. Heat Wave
  5. How Deep Is the Ocean?
  6. Medley: Everybody Knew But Me/When You Walked Out Someone Else ...
  7. There's No Business Like Show Business
  8. Cheek to Cheek
  9. Love and the Weather
  10. Supper Time
  11. Medley: You're Easy to Dance With/It Only Happens When I Dance ...
  12. Better Luck Next Time
  13. Let Yourself Go
  14. Waiting at the End of the Road