Blowing Dust – Live in Paris

Artist: Diana Krall
Album: Live in Paris
Release Date: October 1, 2002

I’m not too well versed in jazz, but I do have my favorite albums and artists. Diana Krall is definitely one of my favorite artists. Although some (maybe most) might consider her more jazz pop, there is no denial that she is good at what she does. Live in Paris is a perfect example of why that is so. Her versions of both old and (sorta) new songs can only be described as perfect. When you join her skill with being backed by some of jazz music’s greats, you have yourself a damn fine album.

From the opening applause to the closing applause the album is full of jazz classics. She covers songs from such artists as Cole Porter, Brooks Bowman, and George Gershwin. There are also songs from lounge great Burt Bacharach, folk legend Joni Mitchel and the eternal Billy Joel. Even if you’re not a huge jazz fan I think there’s something for everyone in this album. If you’re a music fan the musicians that backs her up are also legendary. Bassist John Clayton, drummer Jeff Hamilton, and guitarist (and one of my favorites) Anthony Wilson all make each song on the album pure music perfection.

Why should I dust off this album?

Well, if you’re not into jazz music, this is just simply a great album. Introduce yourself to it and you won’t be disappointed. And if you are disappointed, then fine, I’ll hand you back your Fall Out Boy album.

If you do like jazz music and haven’t heard this one yet, then you should. Some people have gripes that she is more pop and not jazz and also that she only does covers. Fine. But there’s one overwhelming point that is undeniable. She’s a great singer and an even better pianist. Pop artists can’t get away with skills like hers and covers or not. Classics done right are just as good. So stop being so critical and enjoy.

…by the way there is also a DVD for this album which is equally just as good….