Common Thread

After two highly successful small group releases (Tender Trap '05 & Soon '07), it's only natural that this quintet neatly fits into its larger configuration: a powerfully tasty 16-piece big band led by drummer Kenny Hadley with the vocal lacings of Amanda Carr. Again, they choose those underexposed gems from the American Songbook and treat them to superb arrangements from some notable names of our time. Amanda's clear and pure voice is the perfect thread that dynamically weaves through this exciting collection of spirited and inventive performances. With their fierce, but organic approach, echoing the sound of bands like Stan Kenton, Woody Herman or even Boston's own Herb Pomeroy, this group offering will satisfy both the big band enthusiast and the discerning palate that appreciates a singer who can sing the tunes with honesty and without vocal aerobics. Amanda Carr is a true jazz singer in a time of wannabes... Nat Hentoff, The Wall Street Journal