Most would agree most popular artists out there have something truly special to give to their fans. This goes above the typical attributes like raw talent, amazing songs, nice voice, or even a very marketable look, sound & image. There’s something truly infectious at the core of these artists that simply makes us feel good when we listen to them. Whatever “it” is – they all seem to have “it”.
Today I listened to the latest CD from San Francisco based Jazz Vocalist Benn Bacot & his quartet entitled Stolen Moments (2012). Venturing to his website I get the impression this is one artist that is extremely experienced and passionate about music. From start to finish this CD from Bacot delivers and is a very entertaining musical experience overall. It has a very warm and inviting Contemporary Jazz quality to it, and even dabbles in classic Vocal Jazz and Big Band Jazz. It also reminds me of Louis Armstrong, Johnny Hartman, and more modern Andy Bey. Any fans of any of these artists will enjoy this latest release from Bacot and his quartet. It’s clearly marketed for those who enjoy a low but soothing Jazz Baritone vocal front. I get the impression Bacot and company are letting it all hang out via this compelling 12 track line up. All songs are priceless classic Jazz covers and my hats off to Bacot for hand picking such an amazing collection of music. My favorite tracks are (If I Were You) (Baltimore Oriole) and the title track. Within each one of these pieces Bacot offers up his own unique musical interpretation of each piece and bares his soul delivering what I would call pure musical mojo. It offers much in the way of passion and compelling-thought provoking lyrical content. The playing from Bacot’s quartet is spot on and just makes the whole CD even more enjoyable. The overall vibe of the production is very uplifting and cheerful with pockets of hope shining through.
I see Benn Bcaot as a polished Jazz Singer/Artist. Bacot possesses an amazing amount of experience, wisdom and rock solid musical instincts behind the microphone or in front of a crowd. The strong suit Stolen Memories is the way Bacot makes all these classics his very own. No doubt he has huge shoed to gill in this territory but pulls it off flawlessly.
URL – http://www.bennbacot.com/
Purchase Stolen Moments on CD BABY – http://www.bennbacot.com/
Michael Morrison
West Lothian, Scotland (UK)
