Review: Carolyn Lee Jones – In A Long White Room

Carolyn Lee Jones has a vibrant career in the retail buyer field, Jones the vocalist, burst onto the Dallas Jazz scene in 2008.  Though music was a large part of her formative years in Nebraska, she was lured to the big city of Dallas to pursue a career with luxury retailers.  She happily traveled the world.  Her love of music never diminished and she sought out opportunities to sing while flourishing in her first profession.

About the Album

Vocalist Carolyn Lee Jones offers a pop infused jazz take on her recent release In a Long White Room, brimming with classic songs from the 60s and 70s Jones gives a respectful treatment to each well-known hit with erudition and earthiness.

Our Favorite Track

The title track “In A Long White Room,” was originally made famous by Nancy Wilson, and Jones approaches the classic tune in a refreshed yet, respectful manner keeping to the original arrangement mostly.  Jones has a lyrical way about her voice, which is a winning formula.  One only has to look at Stacey Kent’s career success to see this is a winning approach.  Though sticking closely to the original arrangement, Jones’ voice still is uniquely her own, round and supple with a buoyancy that floats atop the lyrics with ease.  Her voice is pleasing and bright, and her diction is clear and enjoyable.  Her ensemble is equally skilled in creating a cohesive sound that lends itself to the overall band sound.

In Conclusion

Jones has created a pop sensibility jazz album that swings and sways in a pleasing eloquence.  Her song choices suit her famously and her chosen bandmates are up to the task, together creating and tasteful palette of well performed tunes that are easy on ears.