Personnel: Martin Bejerano (piano), Kris Davis (piano), Hans Glawischnig (bass), Rob Jost (bass), Einar Scheving (drums), Jeff Davis (drums), Sean Harkness (guitar), Ole Mathisen (tenor sax), Lauren Riley (cello) and String Orchestra Tracks: Only You, 2. Yesterdays, 3. If Ever I Would Leave You, 4. This Is It, 5. Lovingly, 6. By Myself, 7. Firefly, 8. Day by Day, 9. “Murder”, He Says, 10. Evening Song, 11. Desafinado, 12. More Than Words Can Say

Stevie Holland’s More Than Words Can Say, features a well produced disc, arranged, orchestrated and conducted by Gary William Friedman. This recording showcases a brilliant vocalist, who displays a powerful, yet beautiful vocal instrument. Holland is  accompanied by some wonderful New York City session musicians.  They deliver and match Holland’s passion and emotion throughout this recording.

There’s a real NY, east coast feel to this recording. I love the vibe on yesterdays. After Stevie delivers a swinging verse, pianist Martin Bejerano delivers a solo full of fire and swing. The next cut, Holland is accompanied by guitarist Sean Harkness, who plays tastefully behind Stevie, then rips hip solo improvisational responses in and between Stevie as they create beautiful dialogue throughout!

 Holland really shines in spots on this disc where rubato and communication are necessary. I loved her rendition of Lovingly, her voice is clear, pure and the communication is excellent between her and the listener. She possesses a rare quality of beauty and powerful swing.

This album is extremely well produced. Holland does not stick to one bag musically, and Friedman and Holland picked musicians who could play and communicate on a variety of grooves and feels. By Myself, is an excellent example of what I’m talking about. There are times in this performance where Holland swings powerfully, and at times Stevie flows in straight 1/8th feel. She really delivers when the tune needs the emotional firepower.

But great recordings need two things in my opinion, strong emotional connection with listeners and a variety of contrasts so a listener has variety of music to listen to. This CD delivers on this big time. It possesses a listenability and sensibility that will bring listeners back for multiple listens. Personally, I love the fire this recording brings to me as a listener. I liked to be grabbed and told to pay attention. I love passion and expressiveness, Stevie has these qualities, and includes a beautiful voice, full of clarity, and she swings her %$# off!!!

This is a fine musician who has surrounded herself with great producers and a fine arranger-orchestrator. Together they have delivered a wonderful project to the music world.

For more information about the music of Stevie Holland, please visit:StevieHolland.com