Vocalist Amber Whitlock, a resounding new voice in Jazz glimpses the future of internet impact on the "original" indy art form, Jazz and it's many genres, while she premieres her new CD The Colours of Life. Fort this release, Amber rounded up an impressive array of jazz's "Who's Who," including the unsurpassed Michael Brecker (tenor saxophone), Vinnie Colaiuta (drums) teamed with Anthony Jackson (contrabass guitar) and Amber's husband Rob Whitlock (Hammond B3/Piano) in the rhythm section. The CD features an inspired performance from guitar guru Scott Henderson, and a duet with Jim Gilstrap (Stevie Wonder; You Are The Sunshine of My Life).
Amber Whitlock, an East Coast transplant from Miami & the D.C. area is currently based in Southern California. She enjoys marrying the singing styles of classic singers like Billie Holiday & Diana Krall with the creative writing styles of the likes of Joni Mitchell & Sting. Amber is writing and producing partner to jazz keyboardist Rob Whitlock for their many projects along the way, as well as being his wife. A session singer since the mid seventies, Amber has been singing jazz and popular music for years and is well seasoned and mature in her approach.In a recent syndicated review, "Jazzed with Monte Byrd," he writes; "Amber Whitlock may be the best kept secret in the world of jazz vocalists, female or otherwise. Her voice is fresh, but seasoned, strong and yet delicate, rich and giving in it's texture. She captures the essence of that which has defined our greatest singers; the bell-like pitch of Rosemary Clooney, the graceful swing of Ella, the knowing edge of Joni Mitchell and the smoky elegance of Nancy Wilson."
On this, her debut solo effort, Amber is joined by an assemblage of some of the finest players in the business. As on husband, Rob Whitlock's Sketchin, reviewed in the August 2005 issue, this recording features a brilliant performance by the legendary Michael Brecker on the tenor saxophone. Reminiscent of his work with Steely Dan and other top artists, Brecker's sax weaves a colorful tapestry around the singer's voice and other instruments. Her duet with Stevie Wonder vocalist, Jim Gilstrap (You Are The Sunshine of My Life) evokes such pairings as Roberta Flack & Peabo Bryson. Never lost in the mix however, this lovely diva's voice is the main ingredient that makes this tasty jazz stew work."
Among the outstanding compositions featured on this recording are five beautifully written songs by Amber and Rob. A soulful reading of the Stylistics' Betcha By Golly Wow, and a touching rendering of Randy Newman's When She Loved Me are diverse but satisfying choices and give the resulting collection a unique personality."Other highlights on the CD include a unique version of When I Look In Your Eyes with an incredible & unusual solo from bassist Anthony Jackson, a gorgeous gospel choir of LA's top singers and a vocoder solo by Rob Whitlock. A second duet features a favorite partner of Amber's, Leonard Tucker, who blends with her like milk with honey for a playful romp echoing the classic soul group Sea Breeze.
Whitlock has recently recorded along with Herbie Hancock on Hubert Laws Moondance release, also with Warren Weibe, Max Bennett, Kevyn Lettau, Mary Clayton, Sarah and Sean Watkins of "Nickel Creek" and has shared the stage with Diane Schurr, Tom Scott, Freddy Cole, Joe Williams, and has been a guest of the smooth jazz star studded "KSBR Birthday Bash." Her resume also includes opening for Jackie Mason.
Amber's Influences include: Billie Holiday, Roberta Flack, Phyllis Hyman, Nancy Wilson, Joni Mitchell, Rickie Lee Jones, Sting and many others. Currently Amber is listening to Diana Krall, Nora Jones and Madeline Peyroux. Artists like Ms. Whitlock, are finding that having a powerful product, being well versed in the diverse styles of jazz, and knowing and working with the greats in the industry is not enough. Now all she needs to do along with a host of other artists is to conquer the web!
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