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SmoothJazz.com |
Scott O’Brien’s rules for covers: 1) Create fresh, unique versions; and 2) Make sure you retain the essence of the originals. If you want the perfect example of how to do this the right way… the stunningly compelling way… look no further than Nashville-based singer Diane Marino’s new album JUST GROOVIN’. This one is an absolute show-stopper! A dozen of my all-time favorite 60’s pop standards, from artists like The Beach Boys, Rascals and Ronettes, performed with sparkling jazz and big band arrangements. This is just an outstanding project and really a fun, fresh take on songs that are instantly recognizable to those of us who were around for the originals. Even if you’re too young to remember the originals, these are still fantastic performances of great titles like “Baby I’m Yours” and “The Warmth of the Sun” and the duet, “Groovin,” featuring The Rascals’ Felix Cavaliere, the original singer of this pop classic. Add in guest appearances by sax men Kirk Whalum and Houston Person, plus trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, and you have sealed the deal on one of the most enjoyable listens for me in a long time. Diane Marino’s JUST GROOVIN’ is classy, top-drawer stuff. I highly recommend it!
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