Sarah Tolar Debuts Big Blue Moon
Folk Jazz Album Co-produced by David Cook features New York sextet
May 17, 2009
It’s very refreshing to hear a new vocalist sing a set of original songs that represent certain situations and musical journeys they’ve encountered or travelled. That is what you’ll hear when you give a listen to Sarah Tolar’s debut recording titled Big Blue Moon.
Imbued with the songwriting and vocal qualities of Carole King, Judy Collins and Norah Jones, Tolar’s songs are emotionally responsive and much gentler than those heard from many of today’s top contemporary jazz vocalists and the stories they tell. However, her songs are no less serious or significant than the complex and often jazzed up riffs that accompany improvised jazz.
David Cook is "Along For The Ride"
David Cook co-produced the CD with Sarah Tolar and also plays piano, Rhodes, Wurlitzer and the Hammond B3 organ. Cook (who has produced such sensations as award-winning vocalists Jennifer Hudson and Natasha Bedenfield) also co-wrote “Along For The Ride.” This mid-tempo, neo-folk jazz gem that should be a real winner for the Tolar-Cook team because of the ease and renewable energy of the horn charts and backbeats for future interpreters.
Big Blue Moon - Song Descriptions
On “Early Morning Stillness,” Tolar reflects on the inspiration gleaned from the calm of a new day. Her voice is as soft as a morning sunrise and just as beautiful. Further into the set, she sings about the fragility of a love affair on “Hudson,” and the feeling of harmony and being connected on “Big Blue Moon.” “Come To Me” is a low-key ballad that consoles the listener with tenderness and impressionable lyrics that build upon Cook’s knowing piano phrasings.
“Coffee Man” also gives a glimpse into the simple, everyday, people Tolar finds inspirational. This song is a real keeper due to the great solos by Cook and guitarist Robin Macatangay. Tolar’s lyrics are as affecting as the feelings she subjectively pours into this song.
Tolar's Band Features Top New York Musicians
In addition to accompaniment by David Cook, Sarah Tolar is supported by Michael Blanco on acoustic and electric basses, Robin Macatangay on acoustic and electric guitars, Bill Campblell on drums and percussion, Ravi Best on trumpet, Kurt Stockdale on tenor saxophone, and Alan Ferber on trombone. Tolar is fortunate to have developed her own sound under the aegis of David Cook and spontaneously create a group view of her sound on her debut recording.
Each song on Big Blue Moon is produced to perfection and should appeal to Tolar’s fans because of their beauty, relevance and intimacy. For more information about Sarah Tolar, please visit her website at www.sarahtolar.com .
