Diane Schuur: Some Other Time

Some Other Time is Diane Schuur’s tribute to the previous generation’s music, and is dedicated to the memory of her mother. This set is a pleasant mix of tunes by some of the premier American songwriters – the Gershwin brothers, Rodgers and Hammerstein, and Irving Berlin to name a few.

At first listen, Some Other Time seems simple and light; however, a closer examination will heighten the complexity of the music and the impressive piano solos. Randy Porter, who plays piano on some of the tunes when Schuur is not on the keys, served as arranger.

George and Ira’s “Nice Work If You Can Get It” gets things started. Schuur handles the melodic conversational tone of this song masterfully. “I’ve Got Beginner’s Luck” is another Gershwin song which makes an appearance on this CD. Schuur’s take on Irving Berlin’s “Blue Skies” is slower than earlier versions. She also re-paces Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “My Favorite Things.” Dan Balmer, on guitar, accompanies Schuur’s vocals and Porter’s piano on these songs quite nicely.

The closing tracks – “September In The Rain” and “Danny Boy” – are poignant and magical. In 1964, ten-year-old Diane recorded “September in the Rain.” And it appears here, static and all. It’s definitely one of the highlights of this collection. Included before the final track – an exchange between Diane and her mom in which her mother asks her if she knows “Danny Boy.” Diane promises that someday she’ll record the song just for her. She keeps her promise with a moving and heart-wrenching rendition of the Irish classic. It’s a perfect closing to “Some Other Time” and a sweet tribute to Schuur’s mother.

Schuur’s vocals are superb and the musicians who accompany her on Some Other Time – Randy Porter, Dan Balmer, Scott Steed and Reggie Jackson – are very talented. Some Other Time is a great jazz album that can be enjoyed by fans of any genre.