Glennis Houston, vocals; Michael Creber, piano; Miles Hill, bass; Craig Scott, drums; John Reed, saxophone/flute; Keith Bennett, harmonica
Winnipeg born Glennis Houston makes her first CD with a title that might well be a reflection of life's difficulties. This may be her first flight, but Glennis takes off well with "Bye Bye Blackbird" showing us a strong confident voice and a fine backing group to match. She sings mainly standards, with a couple co-written. One of these, "The Story's Over", is a strong swinging number, whilst Cole Porter's "You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To" is sung with a provocative sensuality. Michael Creber on piano is immense throughout. He has a clean style that can be punchy and he cuts loose when required, such as on "Cow Cow Boogie" and "I Love A Piano," on which Glennis still manages to sound sensuous. My favorite track is "Sunday Kind Of Love," it gives Glennis the opportunity to show her ability with warmth, expression and clean articulation, there is a beautiful depth to her voice, which is pointed up by the harmonica playing of Keith Bennett. A good first CD.
by Ferdinand Maylin