Blues, Jazz

Release Description: 
Prepare to be captivated by Jacqueline Tabor's eagerly awaited album, All Shades of Blues! This remarkable collection showcases her commanding vocals and deep-seated connection to the blues in all its vibrant forms. Recorded in March 2024 at TRS Recording Studios in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and skillfully engineered by Jason Goessl, the album offers a stunning journey through eight dynamic tracks, weaving together the rich history and diversity of music. Mixed to perfection by Robb Davidson at Nels Motel in Seattle, All Shades of Blues represents the next chapter in Tabor's evolution as an artist, with stellar contributions from a powerhouse lineup of musicians, including Michael Underwood on drums, Jeremy Boettcher on bass, Jason Goessl and Alex Wilson on guitar, and a talented ensemble of the Fox Valley's finest musicians.

With a mix of original compositions and beloved classics, Tabor effortlessly navigates the full spectrum of blues styles, paying homage to legends while infusing new life into timeless songs. Her lively rendition of LaVern Baker’s "Love Me Right" will have you tapping your feet, while Nancy Wilson’s sultry "Stormy Monday" showcases Tabor's ability to transform every note into raw emotion. Love Ain’t Got Nothing but the Blues, written by her mentor Casey McGill, stands as a soulful tribute to her roots, and her original song Lady in the Gown—reimagined with a vibrant horn arrangement—celebrates resilience and captures the grit and grace of life.

A multiple Earshot Jazz Vocalist of the Year winner, and a cultural ambassador honored by the Seattle-Kobe Sister City Association, Tabor's artistry knows no bounds. All Shades of Blues is more than an album; it’s a heartfelt reflection of her life, her community, and the enduring spirit of the blues. Created with the support of Sungoose Records (special thanks to Kate & Jason!), this project is a labor of love dedicated to the dance community and a touching tribute to Tabor's dear friend, Malaika Allen, who sadly passed during the recording process. Join us in celebrating the release of this extraordinary album and the beautiful bond of friendship on December 3, 2024—mark your calendars for a night filled with music, love, and the spirit of the blues!

Liner notes:
It’s not her vocal ability or quality that impresses me most about Jacqueline Tabor as a singer or about her new album “All Shades of Blues,” though those would be enough because they’re both spot on fantastic. No, what impresses me most about Jacqueline and this new album is just how versatile a singer she is. She can sing the badass 12 bar blues songs as well as anyone, as evidenced her work on “Voodoo Woman,” “Keep it to Your Darn Self,” and “Ernestine.” I hear the influence of Bonnie Raitt on her excellent rendition of “Love Me Right” and a nod to Billie Holiday when she adds a little sugar to those lovely cords of hers when she coos “Love Ain’t Nothin' but the Blues.”

She shows she can lead a larger ensemble (and I mean LEAD, not follow) on the sultry “Lady in the Gown,” but she can also bring the proceedings down to Mother Earthy with her smokey, improvisational version of T-Bone Walker’s classic “Stormy Monday.” But my favorite cut on “All Shades of Blue,” is her take on Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer’s standard “Come Rain or Come Shine.” That chestnut has been recorded by umpteen singers but none sound like Jacqueline’s. No, no. The mark of a great singer is when they take a song that is known by so many people and can still, somehow make it their own. Kudos to Lady J.T.

The album itself is beautifully recorded and features a host of superb musicians from the Fox Valley region of Wisconsin. Check out the credits on the album, these are the cream of the crop. Special mention to guitarist Jason Goessl, whose signature style perfectly compliments this collection of tunes and the singer who brings them to life.

P.S. Jacqueline Tabor also makes a seriously kickass, late night scramble for after the gig. Don’t ask me how I know this, I just do.

~Steve March Torme