ORNA — The Very Thought of You (2003) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Orna is a female vocalist hailing from South Africa who has made something akin to a splash in Los Angeles, CA. Produced and arranged by talented bassist Brian Bromberg, this effort features a hodgepodge of stirring ballads amid equal parts samba and jazz-oriented motifs. In addition, the pristine sonic characteristics provide quite a bit of luster to the production when viewed as a whole. Here, the vocalist tackles standards such as "Nature Boy," "My Favorite Things," and Ray Noble's timeless ballad "The Very Thought of You." Not just another compilation of standards by an up-and-coming female jazz vocalist, Orna's affecting interpretations hit the mark in a rather grand way. Her near-perfect diction complements a warm and undeniably resounding mode of execution. She seemingly lives through the songs she sings, while kudos should be in order for her top-notch and duly sympathetic bandmates. In sum, this intriguingly captivating affair should enjoy extensive appeal. Glenn Astarita    Tracklist& Credits :