Pianist/vocalist
Diana Krall pays tribute to
the Nat King Cole Trio on her Impulse! set. In general, the medium and up-tempo tunes work best, particularly such hot ditties as "I'm an Errand Girl for Rhythm," "Frim Fram Sauce," and "Hit That Jive Jack."
Krall does not attempt to directly copy
Cole much (either pianistically or vocally), although his influence is obviously felt on some of the songs. The slow ballads are actually as reminiscent of
Shirley Horn as
Cole, particularly the somber "I'm Through With Love" and "If I Had You." Guitarist
Russell Malone gets some solo space on many of the songs and joins in on the group vocal of "Hit That Jive Jack," although it is surprising that he had no other opportunities to interact vocally with
Krall; a duet could have been delightful. Bassist
Paul Keller is fine in support, pianist
Benny Green backs
Krall's vocal on "If I Had You," and percussionist
Steve Kroon is added on one song. Overall, this is a tasteful effort that succeeds. ~ Scott Yanow