Rating: NNN
There’s nothing especially new or innovative on local jazz diva Alex Pangman’s sophomore record, just a solid set of swingy standards from the 20s through the 40s. Producer Jeff Healey does an admirable job of evoking the dusty, sepia-toned sound of old jazz 78s without the pops and hisses, while Pangman’s sometimes sassy, sometimes mournful crooning is deftly bolstered by bright horn flourishes, saloon-worthy piano breaks and Djangly guitar solos. You won’t hear the worldliness of a Bessie Smith or a Dinah Washington in Pangman’s youthful voice, but her singing has a pure, clear Ella Fitzgerald ring. Alex Pangman launches her new disc tonight (Thursday, September 20) at Healey’s (178 Bathurst).
