Donna Singer, Destiny, Moment of Jazz

by Icrom Bigrad

Destiny, Moment of Jazz is a fine outing by jazz vocalist Donna Singer with longtime collaborator bassist Doug Richards. Destiny, Moment of Jazz, is a collection of seven standards (one of which is just the Doug Richards trio instrumentally -“I’ll Remember April”) and two originals by Carole Belle and Roy Singer- “This Moment of Now” and “Sweet Destiny.”

Singer has a varied program of styles and there is certainly something for every musical taste.  “This Moment of Now,” “Our Love Is Here To Stay,” and “Where or When” are medium tempo swinging toe tapers,  as well as “What A difference A Day Made” that has a rubato gospel intro that develops into relaxed swing.  “Sweet Destiny” and “Time After Time” are given a Latin treatment and “Yesterday” and “I Believe I Can Fly” are straight eight gospel/pop infused selections.

Singer offers the listener a varied program with old style flair.  Her vocal style employs ample vibrato reminiscent of the 40’s, with updated material underpinning the proceedings, an enjoyable listen that employs the walk down memory lane feeling.

Personnel:  Donna Singer (vocals); Doug Richards (bass); Billy Alfred (piano); Mike Cervone (drums).

Special Guests: Jeff Otis (guitar); Chris Pasen (flugelhorn); Nancy Wegrzyn (viola); Bobby Tee (percussion/drums).

Tracks: This Moment of Now 3:35; Our Love Is Here To Stay 3:53; Sweet Destiny 3:33; Yesterday 4:04;  I’ll Remember April 4;36; Time After Time 3:43; What A Difference A Day Made 3:02; I Believe I Can Fly 3:32; Where or When 2:39.