Lois Bruno, And So It Begins Review

Vocalist Lois Bruno might be a newer name on the national scene, but certainly, her mystic and acumen are not overlooked when reading her biography of experience. Early in her career, she caught the ear of DJ superstar, Casey Kasem, who introduced her to Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss of A&M Records. Having performed with many notable musicians including George Cables, Billy Cobham, and Bill Mobley, Bruno has enjoyed the performances in the New York scene and previously recorded numerous “Sung Like the Artist” recordings. On her debut recording on Wise Cat Records titled, And So It Begins is an aptly titled recording. Bruno is joined by Kenny Shanker – Saxophone; Mike Eckroth – Piano; Yoshi Waki – Bass and Brian Fishler – Drums. The vibe is an unaffected rendering of classic tunes that resonate with an old-school personification that has an authentic ring.

 Positives: Bruno’s release captures that late-night vibe, rendering from Porter to Mercer to Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim, and all points in between its easy to hear Bruno’s authentic connection to these tunes. Her approach is unadorned with a dry recording style that suits the timbre and focus of her voice. For those that appreciate albums recorded in the 40s and 50s, this is a must-have collection add.

 Bottom Line: Bruno is not a song interpreter singing in the 90s, 2000 R&B vocalist style trying to sound like a jazzer. Her style beckons an era when jazz was king in the clubs. Her reading of songs like “When Sunny Gets Blue,” offer a pensive, yet celebratory introspection that is effortless, while “Love For Sale,” is given a Latin treatment that is taken at an up-tempo feel. Bruno has a seasoned voice that offers a genuine inflection of jazz. Saxophonist Shanker offers a screaming sax solo, his tone and resonance are full and rounded with warmth, adding to the excitement of the track. A cut that slinks with a swank is “Feeling Good,” based in a funky feel of swampy goodness. At times Bruno has a reminiscence of Mary Stallings, though Bruno’s voice has that same authenticity; her voice offers a bit more allure of melody ornamentation. A recommended addition to any vocal jazz collection. That’s the short of it!

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