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 Buy Now!  |
carol heffler exactly |
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 Buy Now! |
carol heffler pull of the moon | |
| Marc Savant, writer, singer and radio personality, has written the liner notes for “Exactly”. Here they are…Thank you, Marc - Carol HER NATURAL AND TECHNICAL TALENT “Exactly” Reveals the Precise Blend of Both From the downbeat of the title track, the ensemble’s tonal brilliance indicates that “Exactly” is sure to please! Then comes the vocal from CAROL HEFFLER… Exactly Like You Carol Heffler’s sense of time and her inimitable, classic cool belies a clear understanding of the rigors of the genre. In Carol’s expert approach, the tune is hopeful and innocent, yet knowing – exactly as it is best served. It’s a little sassy, but, with an innocence and self-assurance that enables one to imagine the movie of this encounter between a girl and boy. My Foolish Heart Carol has again proffered her uniquely unpressured gentleness, seemingly becoming a trademark of hers. There is such a nice feel on this track and the entire ensemble paints, equally, with deeply hued shades of understanding of the text and idea. The highlights exist in the expertly created instrumental segment. Such a coherent and supportive accompaniment blended with Carol’s specific and intelligent phrasing makes this paean to impulsive love, and willingness to be a fool in love again, a romantic’s favorite. Pull of the Moon The telling lyrics and genuine expression of the hopefulness of desire and love are created by her unforced caressing of the phrasing and leaving the metric requirements well in the hands of the ensemble so that she can preserve and command those things lyrical. One can envisage palm trees, waves, gulls and a couple in love strolling by hand in hand. Her composition and lyrics are the exact combination of pleasant recollection, current joy and the happiness of discovering the force of love on a human heart. Same Old Used to Be Another instance of Carol’s willingness to share emotional texts and sentiments without histrionics. She reveals very personal feelings and experiences in this tune supported, adroitly, by the band in every regard. The track addresses self-reliance, taking the helm of one’s destiny…empowerment. A dedication to change for the better. Lullaby of Birdland Carol is fearless as she negotiates the precarious tempo and tongue-tripping lyric in this tune. She balances the speed and diction with the aplomb of a high-wire artist, yet leaves the listener with no fear of watching a fall from the risky heights. Another demonstration of her groups’ chops as they each take their own virtuosic abilities and create a mélange of tremendous soloists within a flawless blend of ensemble playing. Bittersweet Such a touching exposition of wishes from a mother to a son growing into adulthood. Here, Carol offers an emotional, yet superbly managed, gift of mother’s love and willingness to let go. The piano work, in particular (John Bianculli), takes the bittersweet tears and spins them into a net of support and shimmering, elegant security for Carol’s vocals and sentiments - the final phrases a lingering, reluctant parting of an embrace. Mahina A gentle kiss from the Goddess of the Tradewinds…a beautiful, fortunate chance to feel and hear Carol’s prowess as a lyricist and expose another layer of the flower that is Carol’s musically complex inner core. She has such an astounding feel for and command of the bossa, samba-generally her sagacity of the Latin vibe is unflappable. The saxophones’s warm tone, much like that of a conch shell being played under a full moon, ends the tune Hawaii, Bahia, Key West…someplace romantic, gorgeous and warm! Willow Weep for Me Is a sneak attack employing a swingin’ “punch-hug” to honor and convey the point of the lyrics. She wraps these features in a silken scarf like a magician covering a birdcage preparing to make a Dove vanish – right before our eyes. You Are There A pianist/singer/songwriter, Carol takes the reins and accompanies herself in this homage to the love and support her late father, to whom she dedicates this collection of musical butterfly wings. Carol navigates the rhythmic, intervallic and phrasing demands of this piece and makes them seem elementary. That is an art! This a tender, happy recollection of his constant presence and his ear. He is so fondly remembered for listening to Carol practice and create, and being such a tremendous supporter of her dream. Generally speaking and in closing, I am enhanced by hearing Carol’s takes on these tunes. I enjoyed her originals, as well as her treatment of the standards. I eagerly await her next recording so that I can see to what level Ms. Heffler’s internal muse will encourage and guide her. Well done, Carol! Congratulations! -MW Savant |
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