Return to You

the first album was great, but many songs were covers of jazz standards -- perfectly fine, but it's a joy to hear much more of the musical direction genius of Josh Nelson (also the pianist) on this one. it's a great mix of more contemporary stuff (which fits the artists' ages) -- both excellent covers of artists from Harry Connick Jr. to Joni Mitchell, and fantastic original tunes from Nelson and other friends of the band. although every track has its own sparkling charms, the standout for me was the fresh take on the Leonard Cohen classic "Hallelujah." for a song that's been recorded over 120 times, the fact that Gazarik & Co. have managed to make it their own, between the arrangement and the choice of using a rarer (and, i think, truer to the song's overall feel) final verse, is impressive. speaking of impressive, if you have the chance to catch these L.A.-based musicians live, you're in for quite a show!

This may be Sara Gazarek's second studio album, but "Return To You" is so brilliant and sophisticated that it showcases an artist more on par with jazz legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and even modern stars like Diana Krall and Jane Monheit, than with similar artists with similarly small recording histories. She's a talented artist, and that talent shines through on "Return To You." A find I stumbled on by chance, I was immediately won over by this recording. Gazarek puts a fresh spin (and to be noted, an extremely appealing jazz/folk one) on pop/folk standards and makes each one her own with her beautiful voice, killer band, and top-notch arrangements. Joni Mitchell's nomad-like "Carey" is given a lively treatment that totally fits the song, and Gazarek's spare reading of "And So It Goes" brings a new depth to the song. Paul McCartney's underappreciated and largely unknown "Junk" is slightly recast as a haunting lullaby-like number, and "Hallelujah" is equally memorable. "Northern Lights" also becomes unforgettable in Gazarek's tender hands. There's no shortage of excellent originals, either: the playful "Let's Try This Again," sassy and creative "Makes Me Feel This Way," and heartwarming "Without You" stand out particularly (though all the other self-written numbers are on par as well). Even "Original 4," the instrumental/vocal postlude that closes the album, succeeds and becomes a highlight on its own spare, emotional terms. Sara Gazarek is clearly one of jazz's foremost talents, as she expertly demonstrates on this recording, and her star definitely deserves to keep rising.

I am so glad to see Sara getting more and more of a handle on her voice. Sounding much more mature these days. I look forward to the day when she takes on some of the great classic jazz standards and rips them up. In the mean time it is nice to hear her light, clear, tone as she moves from phrase to phrase. If you are in the mood for a breathy, fresh, clean sound...Sara is right up your ally.

I loved Ms. Gazarek's first cd, but her latest is even better. She displays great taste in her selection of repertoire and the arrangements are first rate. There is not a single bad track! Highlights are her great interpretation of Billy Joel's "And So It Goes" and her rendition of Gillian Welch's "Dear Someone." Her relaxed singing is first rate and the band members play their butts off.

Gazarek seems to be getting beter and better. Her live album is great and her voice is like that of the late Billie Holliday and the more recent Jane Monheit. She will go far in the Jazz genre...

I had never heard of Sara before today. I heard about her through Parade Magazine and just listening to her voice I knew why they made her their top pick.Her voice is so calming and beautiful I recommend this cd to anyone who loves jazz or folk music.

I have eagerly awaited this new release. Great mix of tunes and wonderful vocals. Glad that Sara has 'returned to us' again!

It was with great anticipation that I awaited this latest release from the wonderful Sara Gazarek. The wait has been worth it. This album once again showcases Ms. Gazarek's superb phrasing, versatility and emotional understanding of the material she chooses. She is truly making a place for herself in the jazz world.