tl098711's Full Review: Round the Corner by Deborah Henson-Conant
When you think of a harp, you probably think of a tall beautiful instrument parked in the back of a large symphony orchestra. The concept of a harp for jazz improvisation is even more improbable than a swingin' accordion or violin (although there are some really great, though rare examples of both those, too).
I heard a 10-second snippet of this album on NPR as a transition between stories and was immediately grabbed by the tasteful and inspired sound. Calling up the radio station, I learned it was Deborah Henson-Conant (often referred to as "DHC"). Turns out she has been playing jazz on the harp and composing for some time.
The album is a collection of old jazz and blues standards including Georgia, Blue Bossa, Summertime, and even the nearly impossible to play on a string instrument Take Five. All the songs performed on harp, bass, and drums. They are tasteful, swinging, interesting, soothing, and just plain make you feel good.
The best song, though, is "Over the Rainbow", which is in fact a medley of all the tunes and melodies from the Wizard of Oz (yep, even "We represent the Lollypop Guild", the wicked witch theme, and "If I were king of the forest"). It's hard to persuade someone that these tunes played on a harp don't sound corny or silly, but in fact beautiful and natural; you'll have to hear it yourself to believe it. The medley, over 8 minutes, finishes with a wonderful, swinging jazz waltz interpretation of "Over the Rainbow".
So impressed have I been with DHC that I've purchased 3 more CD's in rapid succession. You can purchase them at all the usual places, though they are often not in stock. Her website (www.hipharp.com) is really fun and offers a lot of information about her, harps, and all the albums, which range from progressive, straight-ahead original jazz compositions, Celtic, blues and boogie, children's songs, and even flamenco!
I am glad to have discovered DHC and everyone I've shared this album with have been really blown away. My only complaint is that the CD ends too soon!
More people need to know about DHC. If you are a jazz lover, I hope you have a chance to hear some of her material soon.
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