Chrys Weedon | Entertainment Editor
That’s right folks, Jeff Goldblum — America’s sweetheart, apple of my eye — released an album Nov. 9 and ushered in a new age, breaking music history into two parts: before Goldblum’s honeyed, soulful piano, and after.
Accompanying the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, Jeff brings us a 14 track album of jazz classics, including “Cantaloupe Island” and “Straighten Up and Fly Right.”
“The Capitol Studio Sessions” is a recreation of the orchestra’s weekly variety show, held at LA’s Rockwell Table and Stage in Capitol studios. All the tracks were performed in front of a live audience, lending a speakeasy, intimate feel to the songs. Full of improv comedy and playful ribbing, Goldblum’s personality glows.
“I love improvising and that feeling of communication and interplay, it’s one of the cornerstones of my acting technique. I see my music in the same way,” Goldblum commented in a press release about the album.
Playing alongside Jeff are other famous names: Irish singer Imelda May, former “American Idol” contender Haley Reinhart, and awarded trumpetest Till Brönner to name a few.
Some may think that Jeff Goldblum would not measure up to these talented musicians. I am offended that some hypothetical person would ever say such a thing. Goldblum not only holds his own among his fellow orchestra members, he thrives. If no one knew it was in fact Goldblum on piano, one would think they were simply listening to a talented Jazz band.
Goldblum’s jazz piano rarely commands the focus of any song, except maybe in “I Wish I Knew (How it Would Feel to be Free)” and “Caravan.” But that is true of most jazz standards, in which the saxophones and horns take center stage. Piano adds another complex layer to any jazz performance, filling out a group’s sound. This album is no different — Goldblum adds his own skillful flair to each song, but doesn’t try to hog the spotlight like any less professional and less experienced musician would.
Overall rating: I strongly recommend this album to anyone and everyone.
Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu
Photo courtesy of decca.com
