Molly Johnson: Because of Billie

Rating: ★★★★

Record and Artist Details

Musicians:

Terry Clarke (d)
Mike Downes (b)
Molly Johnson (v, p)
Robi Botos (p)

Label:

Decca

November/2014

RecordDate:

date not stated

A new recording from the great Canadian vocalist and JUNO Award-winner, Molly Johnson, is always cause for celebration. But her sixth studio album, Because Of Billie, really is something quite special. Recorded in Toronto with producers John Bailey and Mike Downes, this 14-track collection of songs associated with the great Billie Holiday is an exceptional addition to Johnson's oeuvre. Penned by US songwriter, arranger and conductor Johnny Green while on a visit to London in 1930, ‘Body And Soul’ sets the benchmark high, while the breakneck ‘What A Little Moonlight Can Do’ that follows features a remarkable solo by pianist Robi Botos (outstanding throughout). In addition to Billie's self-penned blues, ‘Fine And Mellow’ and the funky, New Orleans-style vamp of ‘Them There Eyes’, Johnson presents superior readings of classics such as ‘God Bless The Child’, ‘How Deep Is The Ocean?’, ‘Strange Fruit’, ‘Lady Sings The Blues’ and more. Beautifully arranged and brilliantly performed, Because of Billie sees Molly Johnson pouring her entire heart and soul into this timeless music.

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