KARLA HARRIS AND TOM KENNEDY: Twice as Nice

Karla Harris and Tom Kennedy

Twice as Nice

© 2007 Bent Oak Records (619981220729)

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Sophisticated style from vocalist Karla Harris and acclaimed bassist Tom Kennedy, who soar on jazz & pop standards featuring two songs each from legendary composers. Swinging arrangements, deeply felt ballads -- rich.

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Twice As Nice, the new CD from Karla Harris and Tom Kennedy, is really two great stories …

~It’s a tribute to some of the most memorable melodies and lyrics ever written -- songs from seven legendary composers of the great jazz and pop standards, with two classic tunes from each.

~It’s also about the collaboration of two artists who share a deep appreciation for this music and a love for performing it.

Those artists, internationally acclaimed jazz bassist Tom Kennedy and popular vocalist Karla Harris, met in 2004. Tom was off the road and back in his native St. Louis, playing a gig in the city’s celebrated Forest Park one evening when he met Karla, also on the engagement.

Well-regarded locally, Karla had recently re-entered the jazz scene after several years away. Hearing her sing standards such as Good Morning Heartache and Moonglow that night, Tom recalls being impressed by a “refreshing lyricism and deep spirit emanating from the vocal mic.”

Karla, for her part, knew of Tom’s reputation as “one of the best bass players on the planet," amazing on both the acoustic and electric bass. A first-call musician, Tom has worked with jazz greats such as James Moody, Freddie Hubbard, David Sanborn, Stan Kenton, Patti Austin, Maureen McGovern and Rosemary Clooney. As an integral part of the Dave Weckl Band, with whom he writes, records and tours, his fans are worldwide. LA Weekly writes that Tom's work is "nothing short of inspiring" and Downbeat Magazine calls him a "true virtuoso."

When Tom suggested Karla take part in a CD project he’d been planning, it was the right opportunity at the right time. Their musical rapport and shared vision for performing this music is evident in each track.

Twice As Nice glides between jazz and sophisticated pop standards in a rich collection that includes works from composers such as Richard Rodgers, Cy Coleman, Burt Bacharach and Johnny Mandel. Tom performs with the best feel in the business on his 250-year-old acoustic bass, supplying both the emotive touches and acrobatic, horn-like solos for which he’s known.

Karla, with a clear, soul-tinged delivery that expresses the lyrics with strength, quiet vulnerability or refined fun, is a natural match with the music. Jazz radio host Ross Gentile describes her approach as "sassy and sensitive ... a singer for all seasons who makes every song memorable."

Stylish arrangements, created by Tom, brush this varied collection with a fresh touch, making the standards anything but. Oscar Hammerstein’s “Lover Come Back to Me,” treats you to a prime performance of Tom’s artistry, showcasing his artistic nuance, speed and wit in an amazing acoustic solo. The Grammy-winning “Wives and Lovers” from Bacharach is cool and swinging with soulful sax by Jason Swagler, while Rogers and Hart’s “Lover” gets a rhythmic twist and scintillating sax solos from Gary Meek (of the Dave Weckl Band).

“The Look of Love” turns haunting with Tom on electric bass and Karla’s longing vocals, and Ray Kennedy (well-known pianist for jazz guitarist/vocalist John Pizarelli) makes you feel like you’re there with his bluesy take on Harold Arlen’s “One For My Baby.” Johnny Mandel’s wistful “You Are There” and “Where Do You Start” set a poignant mood; bass and vocal duets “On the Sunny Side of the Street” by Jimmy McHugh and another Rodgers composition, “Happy Talk,” add a light touch … and much more.

Young pianist Kara Baldus adds dynamic touches throughout while drummer Miles Vandiver provides a consistently supportive spirit and swing.

With Twice As Nice, Tom and Karla celebrate a golden era of songwriting with all who appreciate the qualities that make this music unforgettable. Fans of acoustic bass, vocal jazz and the Great American songbook will love Twice As Nice.

For more information on these artists, visit www.tomkennedymusic.com and www.karlaharris.com.

A PORTION OF THE PROCEEDS from Twice As Nice go to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America and the National Hospice Foundation.

reviews

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  • Than you!
    author: Vaclav Koldus

    Unlike Karla Harris, Tom Kennedy should be well known even to people outside american jazz club scene. We've all heared him playing with Dave Weckl and Mike Stern, we all know his steady groove and the sweet sound of his Fodera bass. But while Karla Harris surprises with her beautifull voice and great jazz feeling, Tom Kennedy doesn't stand behind. His double bass playing is truly amazing and once again confirmes his ability to feel and play the music. For bassists, and I suppose for singers as well, is this CD a must-hear indeed. Many thanks to all who made this CD possible!

  • Fantastic!
    author: The Van House's

    We really enjoy the CD and hope to hear more from Karla Harris to add to our collection! Ms. Harris' and Mr. Kennedy's unique and entertaining arrangements breathe new life into some great jazz standards. This is a beautiful CD to play anywhere, anytime!

  • It was everything I imagined it would be
    author: Mr. Val Buchmiller

    I learned of this new CD on a local jazz radio station here in Southern Illinois. Karla also did some songs while she was in St. Louis on this station (WSIE). I loved her voice and I love the CD. Hoping she has more in the future.

  • Beautiful CD!
    author: Vicki and Gary Hunter

    I loved the CD! Great scrapbooking music!

  • Nice, personal touch!
    author: Jay Snider

    The combo of Karla's melting voice and Tom's ripping bass licks, not to mention the strong supporting cast of musicians, make this CD a wonderful addition to any musical library!

  • Like flowing dark chocolate
    author: The Beirwagen's

    Excellent mix of vocals and standard jazz. Karla's voice is perfect for this venue! One of the best jazz voices on the scene today! Great bass sounds make this a must have for the jazz purist.

  • Delightful. Twice As Nice left me wanting twice more!
    author: Sharon Kreher

    What a delightful CD! I had the pleasure of hearing Karla Harris perform with Tom Kennedy's trio in St. Louis, so I snatched up this CD as soon as I heard about it. I was not disappointed. Ms. Harris' vocals bring nuanced, sexy interpretations to a great selection of titles. Many are true classics, yet they've successfully applied their own original touch to them. The result is a collection I still haven't tired of -- is it possible to wear out a CD?

  • classic sound with a world class approach
    author: Damian Erskine

    Two fantastic musicians coming together and doing a wonderful job of bringing us these beautiful tunes. I love the playing on this album, very classy and full of soul. Karla's voice is heavenly and the band is swingin'! Thanks guys!

  • Sultry swing, subtle and sexy as hell. Twice as nice indeed.
    author: Randy Steinmeyer

    Smokin'...reminds me of a young Dinah Washington if she teamed up with Jaco Pastorius. Sultry, swinging, subtle, and sexy as hell. Music for the ballroom, the bedroom, and the late night lounge. Makes me want to put on my tux and break into a foxtrot. Not that I can foxtrot mind you. Really tasty stuff. Buy this disk for a lover, a pal, or Grandma. It'll put smile on all their faces. It did mine.

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