Jazz Play – Carol Robbins
By Karl Stober
Once more a unique resonance from the jazz galaxy enters into the arena of excellence. The jazz harp has a calming yet hypnotic mystique surrounding its tones. With the 2005 release of Carol Robbins special gift she introduces those tones of the jazz harp with Jazz Play from Jazzcats. Jazz Play is a very cool way to spend a listen!
What first jumps out is the mix of sounds that accompany the Robbins Harp as each cut takes a different spin. Saxophonist Bob Sheppard comes out of the gate in fine fashion with his expertise. Also take in the brass of Steve Huffsteter in the cut “Tangier”, the horns ad clarity to the dimension of the harp as they walk the strings into a solo, a very nice touch!
“Skating in Central Park” has the innocent intro of the Robbins strings. Then in a New York minute the sax focuses on its sensual tones gliding the blades of the harps skate across the icy composition . . . Cool and a select cut!
Jerome Kern’s “I’m Old Fashioned” is nothing short of exquisite. An appreciated cut to this project. A standard that goes to a new level with the harp rhythms and ads a new perspective to the piece. This is cut is “dinner at eight” bait for that special someone!
Carol Robbins and her upcoming release of Jazz Play will alter and expand your horizons in jazz. Rich in innovation powerful in arrangement certainly on the right track to future recognition in the industry.