FFWD Weekly
Copyright © 1999. All Rights Reserved
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CD Review
by Ian Chiclo CASSANDRA WILSON • Jazz at Lincoln Center commissioned Wilson to create an homage to Miles Davis • Wilson has been called the most famous jazz singer of her generation. Cassandra Wilson has one of those voices that drifts through the air like thick, blue cigar smoke. Sweet yet acidic, complex yet ethereal. Traveling Miles is Wilson’s bluesy homage to the late Miles Davis, writing and singing lyrics to accompany his songs and others he recorded. While the sentiment is appreciated, the results are varied. Wilson’s lyrics are to be commended, striking that careful balance between poignancy and simplicity. Likewise, her voice is remarkable, the perfect blend of hot Southern nights and New York cool. Yet, despite the help of Pat Metheny, Dave Holland and Angelique Kidjo, the CD, while perfectly listenable, never quite sticks. This is one of those records where the whole does not equal the sum of its parts. There’s a strange sense of aloofness, despite Wilson’s obvious commitment to the project. In the end the music simply floats by and fades into the distance like a smoke ring which yearns for the sky. 3/5 |
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