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After having rounded up an impressive array of jazz's "Who's Who," including the unsurpassed Michael Brecker (tenor saxophone), Vinnie Colaiuta (drums) teamed with Anthony Jackson (contrabass guitar) and husband Rob Whitlock (Hammond B3/Piano) in the rhythm section, along with wicked features on guitar by guitar guru Scott Henderson, and a duet with Jim Gilstrap (Stevie Wonder; "You Are The Sunshine of My Life") Amber is faced with nurturing her new brainchild.
Amber Whitlock, an East Coast transplant from Miami & the D.C. area is currently based in Southern California. She enjoys marrying the singing styles of classic singers like Billie Holiday & Diana Krall with the creativite writing styles of the likes of Joni Mitchell & Sting.
Amber is writing and producing partner to jazz keyboardist Rob Whitlock for their many projects along the way, as well as being his wife. A session singer since the mid seventies, Amber has been singing jazz and popular music for years and is well seasoned and mature in her approach.
In a recent syndicated review, "Jazzed with Monte Byrd," he writes;
"Amber Whitlock may be the best kept secret in the world of jazz vocalists, female or otherwise. Her voice is fresh, but seasoned, strong and yet delicate, rich and giving in it's texture. She captures the essence of that which has defined our greatest singers; the bell-like pitch of Rosemary Clooney, the graceful swing of Ella, the knowing edge of Joni Mitchell and the smokey elegance of Nancy Wilson.
On this, her debut solo effort, Amber is joined by an assemblage of some of the finest players in the business. As on husband, Rob Whitlock's "Sketchin," reviewed in the August 2005 issue, this recording features a brilliant performance by the legendary Michael Brecker on the tenor saxophone. Reminiscent of his work with Steely Dan and other top artists, Brecker's sax weaves a colorful tapestry around the singer's voice and other instruments. Her duet with Stevie Wonder vocalist, Jim Gilstrap ("You Are The Sunshine of My Life") evokes such pairings as Roberta Flack & Peabo Bryson. Never lost in the mix however, this lovely diva's voice is the main ingredient that makes this tasty jazz stew work.
Among the outstanding compositions featured on this recording are five beautifully written songs by Amber and Rob. A soulful reading of the Stylistics' "Betcha By Golly Wow," and a touching rendering of Randy Newman's "When She Loved Me" are diverse but satisfying choices and give the resulting collection a unique personality."
Other songs include a unique version of "When I Look In Your Eyes" with an incredible & unusual solo from bassist Anthony Jackson, a gorgeous gospel choir of LA's top singers, a vocoder solo by Rob Whitlock, and a second duet featuring a favorite partner of Amber's, Leonard Tucker, who blends with her like milk with honey for a playful romp echoing the classic soul group "Sea Breeze."
Whitlock has recently recorded with Herbie Hancock on Hubert Lawes "Moondance" release, also with Russell Ferrante, Joe Sample, Max Bennett, Kevyn Lettau, Sarah and Sean Watkins of "Nickel Creek"and has shared the stage with Diane Schurr, Tom Scott, Warren Wiebie, Freddy Cole, Joe Williams, and has been a guest of the smooth jazz star studded "KSBR Birthday Bash." Her resume also includes opening for Jackie Mason.
Amber's Influences include: Billie Holiday, Roberta Flack, Phyllis Hyman, Nancy Wilson, Joni Mitchell, Rickie Lee Jones, Sting and many others.
Currently Amber is listening to Diana Krall, Nora Jones and Madeline
Peyroux...
For additional information about Amber Whitlock and her music, and to find out where this music will be performed live, visit www.robwhitlock.com, the Amber page, or www.amber whitlock.com.The online shop also contains other fun items for purchase.
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