Filters

Claire Martin and Richard Rodney Bennett - Say It Isn't So - The Observer

At first glance they made an odd couple, the jazz singer and the distinguished composer, but when it came to the intimate art of "songs at the piano" they had no rivals.  This is their third and, as it sadly turns out, final album.  All the songs are by Irving Berlin, including several less well-known ones, all intriguingly arranged.  Sir Richard, who died late last year, always managed to find some new twist to enliven a familiar tune.  In fact his accompaniments can be quite challenging at times.  The partnership brought out the best in the formidably talented Claire Martin, and her singing here is a constant delight.

The Observer
10 November 2013