When Summer Comes (1999)

About this title: On this nice mix of standards and originals, Lisa Michel displays her compelling appreciation of the American song. With a slightly husky voice sometimes reminiscent of Susannah McCorkle, Michel emanates a relaxed, full tone and individual style that thankfully show an understanding of the words. This is reflected, in part, by her own tunes, for which she has penned graceful, sophisticated lyrics. Backed by soprano saxophonist Sam Newsome and a fine rhythm section of pianist David Berkman, bassist Ugonna Okegwo, and drummer Brian Blade, Michel mostly plays it straight, sometimes taking slight ... read more

Tracks:

1. My Ship [Weill/Gershwin]
2. When My Summer Comes [Harrell/Michel]
3. Perfect Dancer [Michel]
4. Where Is Love? [Bart]
5. Einstein's Dream [Michel]
6. A Beautiful Friendship [Kahn/Styne]
7. Everything Happens to Me [Adair/Dennis]
8. Slides [Berkman/Michel]
9. On a Slow Boat to China [Loesser]
10. Hard to Love [Michel]
11. You're Gonna Get It [Michel. Lisa]
12. He's Gone Away [Traditional]

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