Color and Light: Jazz Sketches of Sondheim (1995)

About this title: With so few major composers still alive by the mid-'90s, it was logical that jazz musicians would try to expand their repertoire by exploring the works of non-jazz writers. None of Stephen Sondheim's compositions have thus far become jazz standards but that may change after the release of this CD. Three of the tracks unfortunately feature vocals by the overdramatic Nancy Wilson and the R&Bish Peabo Bryson but Holly Cole (on two numbers) fares much better. The most interesting moments are provided by the all-star musicians which include such players as tenors Joshua Redman and Grover ... read more

Tracks:

1. Pretty Woman
2. Every Day a Little Death [Sondheim]
3. Poems
4. Anyone Can Whistle [Sondheim]
5. Loving You [Butler/Martin]
6. Color and Light
7. One More Kiss
8. Losing My Mind
9. Children and Art
10. What Can You Lose?
11. They Ask Me Why I Believe in You [Hancock]

Note: This is a general synopsis. Each listing is further described below.