| Jazz |
Here is a high-quality cover album, even if one might expect such an artist, with a genuine vision of her craft as an interpreter, to present more personal proposals rather than delving into covers. Nevertheless, this is a substantial work that cannot leave one indifferent. It is therefore essential to let Allegra Levy speak about this project so as not to overlook her intentions:
“I mean, this piece is so deeply rooted in our repertoire of great songs,” explains Levy. “How could I not include it in an album of questioning songs?”
Wait—are all these song titles questions? (Yes.) Did Allegra Levy go on a Jeopardy! binge while planning this album? (No.)
The idea came from Levy’s longtime collaborator, pianist Carmen Staaf. “She pointed out that some of the most beautiful songs are questions, not statements, and I was fascinated by this concept,” Levy recounts. “So we worked together to create a long list of songs from different genres ending with a question. As we grow older, we realize that life revolves more around questions than answers.”
Nothing here is left to chance. Allegra Levy offers arrangements that are true reimaginings of familiar songs, infusing them with her distinctive, questioning sensibility. From pieces by Benny Golson, Joe Sample, Carole King, and Horace Silver, to name but a few, we are completely charmed by this offering. Levy’s vocal qualities, paired with like-minded collaborators, quickly overwhelm us with the album’s brilliance.
With Carmen Staaf on keyboards, Mimi Jones on bass, Allison Miller on drums, Roxy Coss on saxophones, Andrew Baird on guitar, and Aubrey Johnson on backing vocals, this album truly delivers delightful surprises and showcases the intriguing perspective of a thoroughly contemporary artist.
As a shrewd composer of catchy melodies and a wise, skillful lyricist—not only for her own songs but also for those of others—Levy is also an imaginative and talented arranger. Just listen to how she updates What Is This Thing Called Love? without altering its melody, harmony, or structure.
And her voice? Her contralto timbre is deep and velvety, simultaneously warm and rich; if garnets could sing, they would surely sound like this. Her phrasing is naturally refreshing and devoid of artifice, equally suited to the sparkling Will You Still Be Mine? and the sober gravity of Where Are You Going? Across her repertoire, Levy’s interpretations envelop the listener in a warm embrace, whether it’s the year-end jubilance of Frank Loesser or the anthem of autonomy in What Are You Waiting For?
With such an album, 2025 will begin on a high note, joining the ranks of female artists who dazzled us in 2024 with their sincerity and their ability to deliver works that are often deeply personal and strikingly intelligent.
All these reasons place this album in our “Essential” category, further proof that jazz as a form is more vibrant than ever, with increasingly exciting and diverse offerings.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, December 26th 2024
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