Chicago native and classically trained pianist
Patricia Barber
's sixth album is a collection of downtempo standards, perfect for a rainy day. Taking on classics like
"Autumn Leaves,"
"I Fall in Love Too Easily,"
"Bye Bye Blackbird,"
or even
"Alfie"
is always a risk, but her confident vocals and interpretations eradicate any doubt that she is a master. Her production is spare, allowing her to sing with such melancholy it's almost eerie. Not many performers can relay such harrowing feeling without over-emoting, but
Barber
makes it seem effortless.
Nightclub
is an appropriate title; listening to these love songs is like being in a smoky room, courted by a lounge singer. This is a classy, solid effort. ~ Bryan Buss