"This album is a masterclass in style and control; a showcase for an artist whose technical command is matched by a deep reverence for the genre while its approach leans toward the traditional, there’s a quiet confidence in that choice. Here, tradition isn’t a boundary, it’s a canvas and Nancy Kelly paints on it with clarity, warmth, and undeniable charm."

Thierry De Clemensat

https://www.paris-move.com/reviews/nancy-kelly-be-cool/

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"Vocalist Nancy Kelly sings with clarity and street smarts on this mix of jazz treasures."

 Jazz Weekly  George W. Harris

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"As a jazz radio programmer, I often say "if you don't have something new to say with a standard, I don't need to hear another standard version". With her new release "Be Cool", vocalist Nancy Kelly accomplishes just that - fresh, new takes of some standards and familiar popular songs. Nice original arrangements by the young organist William Gorman. Wonderful vocal interpretations by Nancy. Great band, including Carmen Intorre Jr. on drums,Jerry Weldon Tenor and Dave Stryker on guitar, and the national treasure himself, Houston Person, on tenor on two tracks. I'll be all over this one on my radio show!"

Dr. Brad Stone Producer, programmer and host, "The Creative Source"

and "Chats with the Cats"

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“Wow !!! These days, I seldom listen to anything more than once. Seems like I just never have time. I really like to hear an album in its entirety. I’ve listened to your album at least 3 times. All of it!! And it is VERY fun, great set and mix of tunes, the programming is great! A really cool musical journey. I love it. It is truly superb.

William Gorman is a real deal organ player. He’s listened and learned.

YOU, my friend — wow. Not since Etta Jones have I loved hearing a voice this much. Your phrasing, intonation, musicality, your FEELING for the lyrics….all amazing.”

Scott Elias, Freelance Film Producer and President at Random Acts Entertainment.

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"What can I say? This is a terrific CD.....  and Nancy's never sounded better. Her selections and sidemen are impeccable and these sessions deliver on every track.

Be Cool is easily her most complete work to date and this is clearly some of the finest work in Ms Kelly's career."

 Frank Malfitano, founder & executive producer, Syracuse International Jazz Fest​

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Nancy Kelly, who recorded her debut album in 1987, recently released her seventh recording, Be Cool. She has a strong and appealing voice, swings even when sticking close to the lyrics of a song, and is not afraid to stretch herself.

Be Cool is Nancy Kelly’s second recording with an organist and her first with William Gorman whose powerful playing is a throwback to Wild Bill Davis along with the 1960s giants of the Hammond B-3. Guitarist Dave Stryker, tenor-saxophonist Jerry Weldon, and drummer Carmen Intorre Jr. are also in the core group with tenor great Houston Person making two welcome guest appearances, and the title cut also including soprano-saxophonist Joe Carello and guitarist Charlie Sigler.

The 11 songs include “Devil May Care,” a swinging “Besame Mucho,” an effective “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” a surprising version of “As Time Goes By” that is taken at a racehorse tempo, and a scat-filled “Bebop Lives” (a vocalized “Boplicity”). Nancy Kelly sounds very much in prime form throughout this outing and the results are spirited and enjoyable. Be Cool is available from www.originarts.com.

Scott Yanow L.A. Jazz Scene

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