Alexis Cole Someday My Prince Will Come 180g 2LP

"Alexis Cole is caught deep in the dreams of her childhood on this set of standards that recall a more innocent youth and simpler times. Yet the romantic spell of grown-up fantasies is also heard during this set of ballads derived from show tunes that have references to Peter Pan, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and similar playful, lighthearted figures of mythical proportions. As a vocalist, Cole has few peers in terms of her enunciation, coupled with a beautiful singing voice she draws on previous icons such as Chris Connor, Irene Kral, or Carol Sloane. Pianist Fred Hersch is a perfect choice for making these songs come to life in Cole's vivid, lush, story telling imagination, with bassist Steve LaSpina and drummer Matt Wilson also along for this magic carpet ride. A song like the loping ramble 'Let Me Be Good to You' is more seductive, while 'Love' (from Robin Hood) adds Hersch's stride piano and Don Braden's soprano sax, adding whimsy to the forlorn refrain. For the most part, these are heartfelt songs of love on the way, anticipated by Cole's supple voice during the soft swinger 'If I Never Knew You' (from Pocahontas) and the waltzing title track, both featuring the haunting harmonica of Gregoire Maret. Braden's flute on 'La La Lu' (from Lady & the Tramp) accents Cole's sweet charms, perfectly evocative of her cover photos, as she's draped in pearls and a pristine white dress, holding a butterfly. If you're in a similar mood, probably late at night, these songs are best when shared with a good friend, especially as time stands still but for a while." – Michael G. Nastos, AllMusic