Thamgo City

This fine debut recording by Guadaloupe Raventos features the vocalist with a core rhythm trio of guitarist Marcelo Cardozo, bassist John Benitez, and drummer Cody Moffett, with guests (including the compelling Tito Castro on bandoneon) joining on selected tracks. Twelve tangos are lovingly interpreted in English by Raventos, whose sound reminds the listener of Susannah McCorkle. She is an American original; her immaculate choice of tunes ("When You're Not With Me," "Suburban Girl," "Orange Tree in Bloom," and nine others) fits her style perfectly. She is a jazz singer who makes the tunes her own by infusing them with emotional intensity while steering clear from sensationalism. The music is accessible without sacrificing artistic vision. Raventos is most effective on the slower, more difficult numbers, where she sings with considerable depth. The faster pieces are not quite as effective, as the scatting sometimes seems a tad stiff. If life is fair, this release should mark a turning point in her career, as it is a unique and lovely tribute to the art of tango, as well as a tuneful display of an up and coming talent.