Roberta Brenza - It's My Turn to Color Now

Coming to performing later in life, Chicago-based vocalist/songwriter Roberta Brenza makes the most of this debut recording experience as she enlists a brilliant team of playmates: producer and drummer Matt Wilson, pianist Dawn Clement, bassist Cameron Brown, and saxophonist Stacy Dillard,along with special guest, legendary vocalist Sheila Jordan.

Together they sculpt an intriguing set of thoughtfully arranged songs such as Watch WhatHappens and Bye Bye Blackbird, jazz standards like Take Five and Don Cherry's Art Deco, along with two revealing Brenza originals. Having lived in both French and Italian-speaking cultures, she also offers fresh takes on 'Les Feuilles Mortes (Autumn Leaves)' and 'Estate'. Channeling the long-developing feelings of music she was first exposed to as a child listening to her father's collection, Brenza presents as a full-formed package, revealing new insights from the lyrics as she paints from a vibrant musical palette.

Her delightfully casual and welcoming voice, defying gravity in a manner not unlike a legend such as Blossom Dearie or peer Kat Edmonson, has the special charm that's easy on the ears with the potential to stir your heart. - John Ephland