Speak (2004)

On January 26th 2004, in simultaneous live satellite transmission from a studio in Los Angeles, across multiple time zones, to cinemas throughout the United States of America, a 75 minute version of the film Yesspeak was premiered…

That's for Me is the Susie Arioli Band's third release for Justin Time and it makes a specialty of a 1930s style of swing. With influences and a knowledge of repertoire from Leadbelly to Stuff Smith, from Tammy Wynette to Ella Fitzgerald, listeners seeking an array of rarely heard songs are sure to enjoy this great collection of music. Arioli's soft, sincere, charming voice is the perfect foil for Jordan Officer's acoustic and electric jazz guitar stylings which provide a hint of folk, light swing and country music flavors. The Canadian chanteuse has a very interesting voice that is reminiscent of Peggy Lee, Patsy Cline and Tammy Wynette all rolled into one (check out "It's a Good Day," "Tess' Torch Sing" and "Why Do I.") However, Susie Arioli revitalizes and adds to these Great American Songbook standards and makes this music her own.

The diminutive but mighty acoustic bassist Malachi Favors was a charter member of the Art Ensemble of Chicago and Kahil El'Zabar's Ritual Trio, and since his passing both groups have suffered. This recording for El'Zabar and his revamped trio including longtime member saxophonist Ari Brown and guest violinist Billy Bang is the first offering with bassist Yosef Ben Israel filling the chair of the late Favors…

Omar & The Howlers' misadventures at the majors began when they trimmed the blues and padded the rock. Since returning to Rounder/Bullseye, they have smartly managed to keep the balance, and that's the case on their latest. The 13 tracks alternate between boogie shuffles, swaggering wailers, and heartache testimonies, with Omar's flailing guitar and spiraling harmonica nicely backed by his trio and such assistants as organist Reese Wynans, vocalist Kris McKay and saxophonist John Mills. Plenty of blues and more than enough rock fervor.