SongVault Artist Profile

Jazz Improv Magazine says: Linda Bianchi sings with a personal zeal. As an established actress and veteran performer, she knows how to convince an audience. Bianchi is genuine. Her interpretations are the real deal. Light and carefree, she sings with a polished charm. With only piano alongside, she leaves us plenty of room to absorb the nuances of her performance. Seamless phrasing, studied breath control, pitch accuracy and a conversational eloquence make the difference. Pianist and musical director Fran Minarik provides an interesting texture for the session. For their introduction to “They Can’t Take That Away From Me,” for example, the pianist flows through an array of James Bond themes while supporting Bianchi’s rubato opening. Together, they give this familiar tune a creative aspect that lingers. Then, they flow into the chorus with a delicate air and later transition to “If I Love Again” effortlessly. Both “The Joint is Really Jumpin’ Down at Carnegie Hall” and “On the Sunny Side of the Street” swing with a genuine big band countenance that recalls the heyday of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman and their extended families. The album even closes with a Basie ending. Step back about 70 years and Bianchi would make a highly successful big band vocalist.