Sandy Sasso – Sandyland

SANDY SASSO has been one of the best vocalists on the New Jersey scene for many years. She has a new album out titled Sandyland (Charlie Boy Records – 003), and it is sure to win an even wider audience for her. The choice of material is interesting and eclectic. It is not often that you hear Gilbert & Sullivan on a jazz vocal album, but when you hear Sasso sing “Things Are Seldom What They Seem,” it makes perfect sense. Her version of “Artificial Flowers” brings a new life to this song from the Broadway show Tenderloin. One of her two original songs on the disc, “Walkin’ on Up (to Heaven’s Door),” is a heartfelt spiritual tribute to the victims of the Haitian earthquake. Sasso’s strong performances are abetted by a fine support group including Rio Clemente, who also provided input on several of the arrangements, on piano and B3 organ, Bill Easley on reeds, Mac Gohellon on trumpet, Steve Nelson on vibes, Calvin Jones on bass, Chembo Corniel on percussion, and Steve Johns on drums. Sasso and company have produced a well programmed and consistently entertaining visit to Sandyland.

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