The moment I heard about this CD, I wouldn't stop bugging my contact for a copy. Chaka Khan has always been one of the most respected singers, not just vocally but also because she does not rely on her pipes alone,
but actually sings - with brains.
It is not a secret how amazing Khan's voice is. From the vocal colors to the range, there were many opportunities to showcase her vocal powers in the tracks of this album, but she opted for proper timing and appropriately delivers only what is needed for each song.
On first playing, one kinda questions why the disc opens with "Crazy".
An averagely arranged version whose tempo is somewhat rushed,
it felt weird that it was the first track as it does nothing, most especially to a Khan fan.
Bland and almost uninteresting, the version felt very Karaoke and cold. Out of Khan character if you ask me, or is it the arrangement and speed set by the conductor that leaves the singer no room for creativity?
Same goes for Big Spender. Sung in a somewhat sloppy manner, the version sounded like a lazy cat on heroine. I might have been spoiled by Bassey's version of this song where each phrase and line is given authority, but there really is just so much lacking in Khan's characterization of the song. Maybe it is how she sees it to be sung, slightly conservative and staying clear of the Bassey path, but this may simply be a case of a hit better left alone. Lest suffer being compared to an original version that will remain the best ever.
I however continued on and listened intently on each versions purpose. Many were sung excitingly, most especially To Sir With Love. A version that is remarkably marked with Khan's signature all over. Her voice sounding fresh and almost untouched by the years. This would have been an extremely exciting opening track for the album really. But I guess the producer opted to save the excitement for later.
Stormy Weather though sung by dozens, paints the best picture of what Khan's voice has to offer. Rasp, character, sexiness, range and control. The version is sung so naturally and flows along so well you might as well be in your favorite lounge atop a building watching the city lights with this in the background. It makes you miss enjoying company of friends while watching jazz artists jam and sing their hearts out in a bar.
The Best Is Yet To Come and 'Round Midnight both bring individual character under Khan's voice. Strong and well studied, these versions seem well prepared. Excellent versions!
Overall, I think this is a great showcase of Khan's outstanding vocal technique. Incomparable and a voice so rare no one can ever miss identifying when it's Khan singing. Strong and full, of character and attitude, Khan simply is a true artist that knows how to use an instrument as great and powerful as hers.
As for the weak versions in this album, I do not see them as a fault of Khan, but of the uncreative orchestration and arrangements of the conductor. Most seem hastily done and no special effort was given to the arrangements. The orchestra sounding more like a karaoke accompaniement really and brought nothing exciting to the project. Something that would be completely different if the numbers were arrangement by maybe John Mauceri or Erich Kunzel. Otherwise, maybe Khan would have sounded better accompanied by a jazz band.
So, for Khan fans, this is a great album. Just prepare yourself that it does not immediately sweep you off your feet. But it does something nice when you get to the heart of the album. Except nothing from the rest of the cast, but you will love Chaka Khan... Still, incomparable. :o)
