The Canadian jazz singer and pianist gives about a two-hour concert in Paris and all two hours are very worthwhile to watch and hear. This is good stuff - and I'm not really a jazz fan. Krall is accompanied by five other jazz musicians and a European symphony orchestra, conducted by Alan Broadbent.This is simply good music by real pros in the jazz business and led, of course, by Krall, who has a wonderful voice and is a terrific pianist. It doesn't hurt that she looks great, too! (Actually, the whole concert is filmed beautifully.) To Krall's credit, she lets her band get a lot of solo time and she's generous with the compliments. I found guitarist Anthony Wilson a particular standout. However, you can see Krall is partial to longtime musicians John Clayton (bass) and Jeff Hamilton (drums.) She speaks of them like old buddies, which they probably are.The first selection is the most upbeat of the concert and gets things rolling. All of it is first- class and gets better and better with each viewing.
... View MoreDiana Krall: Live in Paris (2001) is a fabulous work showing the genius of Daina Krall and her band in performance. Saying "her band" is understatement. Backed by John Clayton, probably the world's most gifted living jazz bassist; Jeff Hamilton, the truly stellar jazz drummer, and a host of other jazz greats, Diana Krall's unique style was captured at its peak in this excellent and impeccable film. Shot at the the Olympia Theatre with superb video and audio.
... View MoreI enjoyed the earlier recordings of Diana Krall, especially "All for You" and my favorite "Steppin' Out". Ms. Krall can swing. I saw her live in a small venue in St. Louis a few years ago and really enjoyed the intimate setting. I have been disappointed in the lush orchestral recordings she has made recently and have passed on buying the last few albums.Quite frankly, I rented this because I was having "Jeff Hamilton withdrawl". I am a great fan of Jeff Hamilton and consider him to be the finest jazz drummer that ever lived. In addition to Jeff's wonderful presence, we also are treated to the artistry of John Clayton on bass. Since the sad passing of Ray Brown this past July, it is quite likely that John is the finest living jazz bassist.In short, this video is a treat. There is a nice mix of small group jazz and orchestral big band jazz. The orchestral music is nicely arranged, and swings more than the last couple of CDs. There is not a bad song in the entire concert.I got my fix. It was great to see Jeff and John again. Oh, and the piano player was pretty good, too. <grin>. This is a must-see for jazz fans.
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