I Think of You

Jody Sandhaus' first album, Winter Moon, held out hope for a bright future for this singer with the passionate delivery, and this current undertaking does nothing to dim this prospect. The first album had a play list decidedly leaning toward the melancholy. While there is still some of this here, the play list is peppered with bright tunes that highlight Sandhaus' fine sense of timing. You can hear this feel for the pace and for the beat on such cuts as "Too Close for Comfort" and "Please Be Kind." To her credit, Sandhaus is not reluctant to try out unfamiliar material. "I Think of You," which serves as both the kick-off and the album's coda, is a nod to Fred Rogers who has been showing kids, and their parents, around his neighborhood on TV for more than 30 years. One delivery problem is Sandhaus' predilection for broadening her A's, sounding like a native New Yorker who never left the city, as with "ache" in "I'll Never Be the Same." A little diction work would help. At the same time, this tune is decorated by some lovely lyrical bass by Michael Moore, the bass player of choice for many vocalists. But it's the romantic tunes that spotlight Sandhaus' ability to captivate the listener. She's pensive on "Spring Is Here," crestfallen on "You've Changed," ardently optimistic on "For Heaven's Sake," and tentatively seductive on "Close Your Eyes." The album is complimented with the presence of a distinguished set of accompanists. Besides Moore, husband Pete Malinverni is obviously sympathetic on piano and, as on her first album, veteran drummer Leroy Williams keeps the time, adding a well-timed rim shot or two along the way. A good second effort and recommended.