Judi’s compositions are like her paintings… Magical!
Sheila Jordan, 2012 NEA Jazz Master
The album “Lessons Learned”, recently released on Unit Records, consists entirely of Silvano’s compositions, some of them sharp and spiky (“Dark Things”) and others full of wonder (“Round and Round”). One subtle high point is a ballad titled “Hand and Heart.”
Nate Chinen, WBGO.org/post
Once again, the jazz vocalist finds that sweet spot between art chic and hard core pro as she delivers a real personal album. Lyrically loaded with lessons all of us should really be thinking about, this is a Zen jazz set that’s sure to resonate.
Chris Spector, MidWest Record Review
Judi Silvano’s “Lessons Learned” has moved my thoughts and memories in countless directions, her words awakening so much of a life lived. After careful listening to her thought-provoking lyrics, all I can say is the album has now become a permanent fixture on my iPhone playlist.
Eric Alan, alljazzradio/co.za/blogs-and-reviews, So.Africa
There comes a point in anyone’s life that is a place of reflection; a review of a lifetime’s worth of choices and decisions. At that point, songs emerge, and Judi Silvano’s “Lessons Learned” (Unit Records UTR4868) is a mature musical compilation of personal observations on life and love.
“Lessons Learned” was produced by Grammy winning saxophonist and composer Joe Lovano, who says “This is one of the most inspired and fun recording sessions I’ve ever been a part of; it’s full of beautiful, joyous music!” His feelings are well reflected in his adventurous arrangements of these songs, from tender and spiritual to raucous and whimsical. That gamut is also a function of Judi’s songwriting. She’s not afraid to bare her heart and sing of intimacy, and she tackles the realities of aging with hilarious candor.
The musicians on the recording are members of Silvano’s Zephyr Band, an ensemble with an unusual lineup for a jazz singer: two electric guitars. These are wielded by Kenny Wessel and Bruce Arnold, providing orchestral settings for the songs. The band is rounded out with Ratzo B. Harris on bass, Adam Kolker on bass clarinet, soprano and tenor sax, Bob Meyer on drums and Todd Isler on percussion. Joe Lovano lends his signature sound on tenor sax to two tracks.
They continue to find new directions for Silvano’s compositions and stories.
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