 THE
MOON IS BLUE Kenny Kotwitz is long recognized as one of the outstanding accordion players in the U.S.A. who regularly tours abroad. This recording once again offers proof of that popularity. Along with Mary's vocal stylings and the assistance of fine musicians on trombone, electric bass, drums, percussion, piano, trumpet, flugelhorn, guitar, clarinet, flute and nylon string guitar, Kenny really offers some great performances. Opening with a Swing Medley (It Don't Mean a Thing and Sing, Sing, Sing) and ending with One for My Baby (and One More for the Road) plus a reprise of The Moon is Blue, he plays some equally well-known tunes such as the title piece The Moon is Blue, Maple Leaf Rag, Soon, The Jitterbug Waltz, I Thought About You. Interspersed with several of Kenny's original compositions, A Mood Swing, No Ordinary Miracle, At the Heart of A Song, this is a very accessible CD, one you will listen to many times. Young accordionists wanting to become professional players should listen carefully, for they can learn a lot about accordion technique as well as artful and interesting arranging for the instrument. Kotwitz is a good composer, too; you will enjoy his tunes. In addition to the great music, however, everyone will find something else very tastefully used: the "Bluesbox" which allows the accordionist to bend pitches. Kenny employs this in a very intriguing manner and never overdoes a good thing. A lot of accordionists will undoubtedly be investigating this "Bluesbox" advantage for their instruments and, when they do, it is hoped they will study the successful musical manner in which Kenny Kotwitz has used it. The CD liner notes have a quote from no other than the legendary Art Van Damme saying, "This is one of the best accordion CD's I've ever heard. Very good arrangements, along with nice vocals by Kenny's wife, Mary, and Don Shelton of the Singers Unlimited. Most jazz accordionists would love to be able to bend a note just like Toots Thielemons does on his harmonica. Now, Kenny can do it whenever he likes on the new Bluesbox Accordion. Listen to what he does on One for My Baby . . . You'll know what I mean. This CD is a must for every jazz enthusiast." This is a fine CD. You won't go wrong in adding it to your collection. Reviewed by Joan Cochran Sommers. For information on purchasing this CD, please visit: www.bluesbox.biz |
