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Veronica Thomas: Veronica Thomas They Say It's Wonderful
By
John Proulx
keyboardsVeronica Thomas
vocals"Almost in Your Arms," an Oscar-nominated song from a 1958 film (Houseboat, Paramount Pictures) starts the album with a swinging take from Thomas. Bassist

Mike Gurrola
bass
Bob Sheppard
saxophone, tenorb.1952

Kevin Van Den Elzen
drumsThomas is a higher-voiced vocalist with a great sensitivity, swing, razor intonation and soul. She is intrepid about delivering well-workhorsed material. And, with Proulx's guidance and musicianship, she is framed impeccably, delivers most admirably, and is thoroughly relaxed in her artistry. Proulx's piano chops are as excellent as his production skills. Bob Sheppard, always an in-demand vocalist's reed-playing partner, delivers in spades. Mike Gurrola's bass and drummer Kevin van den Elzen lend generously to this album's joy.
"Speak Low" has Thomas singing over van den Elzen's brushwork before it breaks into a hip samba-like swinger. The groove here is contagious. Bassist Gurrola delivers a fine solo. Thomas and Sheppard scat too. It is an out of the ordinary take. The one original is the lovely Proulx-K. Lawrence Dunham-composed, "Stuck in a Dream." Thomas sings this with great feeling. The texture is all reves d' amour. The last sequence is perfection. It is a highlight track. "Too Late Now" is a slow dance ballad from Royal Wedding (M-G-M, 1951) which Thomas covers in a reserved, yet loving way. Although slower in tempo, the tune has a faint "Saving All My Love for You" shadow. "Two for the Road" by

Henry Mancini
composer / conductor1924 - 1994
They Say It's Wonderful is a splendidly entertaining album from an elegant vocalist who is certainly worthy of more studio recording visits. ">
Track Listing
Almost in Your Arms, Get Out of Town, Invitation, They Say It’s Wonderful, If I Were a Bell, Dindi, Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered, Speak Low, Stuck in a Dream, A Sleepin’ Bee, Too Late Now, Two for the Road.
Personnel
Veronica Thomas
vocalsJohn Proulx
keyboardsBob Sheppard
saxophone, tenorMike Gurrola
bassKevin Van Den Elzen
drumsAdditional Instrumentation
Bob Sheppard: flute; John Proulx: vocals, producer
Album information
Title: Veronica Thomas They Say It's Wonderful | Year Released: 2024 | Record Label: Nica Carrington Productions
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