Journey
Independent
As this is Western Australian jazz vocalist, Penny King’s debut LP, she has taken this opportunity with both hands to explore and express her musical taste and talent. The first track, Waltz For Debby, by Bill Evans is well known to jazz enthusiasts particularly after Tony Bennett and Evans’ duo recording; however, Penny brings her own interpretation to this wonderful song.
Journey is the first of her compositions – strong melody line and chordal changes allow the soloists (Carl Mackey on sax and bassist, Peter Jeavons) to stretch out. This is followed with James Taylor’s musical poetry piece; Carry Me On My Way beautifully executed by King, with an insightful piano solo from Tom O’Halloran. Wayne Shorter’s seminal piece, Footprints, pops in but to be honest, the interest lies more in King’s own works. Rest Your Head, filled with pathos and loving thoughts, is underscored by a beautiful solo, again by O’Halloran, while Just You – penned by King and arranged by Jeavons – is funky, joyous and gives Mackey and O’Halloran another opportunity to spread their incredible talent.
Bravo Penny King.
HELEN MATTHEWS
