Music
What's Your Story (produced by Orrin Keepnews)
Roberta Donnay is an exception. She covers such songs as Johnny Mercer's "Drinkin' Again," and Bob Dorough and Fran Landesman's "Small Day Tomorrow" in the same way that she covers her face in the photo on the cover of her album: with a wide brim. Her engagement with the lyrics, her supple sense of time and her soulful, little-girl timbre remind you of Billie Holiday. She is elegantly accompanied by the pianist Eric Reed and a discreet rhythm section.
- Mike Zwerin, Herald Tribune Intl.
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- Roberta Donnay is a major new find. The fact that Orrin Keepnews produced her record is a tipoff, plus that her backup trio includes pianist Eric Reed with four guest appearances from tenor saxophonist Dave Ellis. Roberta has a very appealing voice somewhat reminiscent tone-wise of Norah Jones. However, she is much more of a jazz
singer than Jones, swinging, using subtle improvising, making sometunes quite bluesy and displaying versatility. What's Your Story is a very impressive effort, highly recommended.
It makes one happy that Roberta Donnay has decided to pursue a jazz career.
- Scott Yanow, L.A. Jazz Scene
- Mike Zwerin, Herald Tribune Intl.
***********************************************************************
- Roberta Donnay is a major new find. The fact that Orrin Keepnews produced her record is a tipoff, plus that her backup trio includes pianist Eric Reed with four guest appearances from tenor saxophonist Dave Ellis. Roberta has a very appealing voice somewhat reminiscent tone-wise of Norah Jones. However, she is much more of a jazz
singer than Jones, swinging, using subtle improvising, making sometunes quite bluesy and displaying versatility. What's Your Story is a very impressive effort, highly recommended.
It makes one happy that Roberta Donnay has decided to pursue a jazz career.
- Scott Yanow, L.A. Jazz Scene