Reviews
What They’re Saying About Kat Parra
AZUCAR DE AMOR
Billboard Review
Philip Van Vleck
[Kat Parra] opens the disc with a sweet bit of salsa/mambo, "Sugar (Azucar de Amor)," that sets the tone for what proves to be a moveable feast of Latin styles. Parra knows how to light the fuse on a salsa number, and she shows us how it's done on the original tune "Quitate la Queta." In a completely different mood, Parra delivers a stirring interpretation of "Esta Montanya D'Enfrente," a mystic Sephardic ballad. Her vocal on this number is beautifully shaped; her grasp of this archaic Judeo-Spanish style is remarkable."
Quotes from NPR's California Report -
CD Review by Andrew Gilbert
"Parra isn't content with tried and true formulas. Since the release of her impressive 2006 debut, Birds in Flight, she's been creating an ambitious, often unexpected, repertoire."
"Parra possesses a voice with personality and soul. Full and throaty in her lower register, clear and crisp in her mezzo range."
"Azucar de Amor, an album that takes latin jazz into some ancient and strikingly beautiful places."
CDHotlist
Here's a complex and delightful album from Bay Area jazz singer Kat Parra, who is equally comfortable singing Spanish and English lyrics in stylistic settings as varied as salsa, mambo, samba, and charanga, and can draw on Sephardic and Afro-Peruvian melodic sources without dropping a beat (or sounding self-conscious or didactic). It's hard to know whether her supple and sparkling voice or her band's equally flexible and joyous playing deserve the most credit for this album's success, but ultimately it doesn't matter -- whether you want to sit back and listen or get up and dance, Azucar de Amor will give you just what you need.
All Music Guide - 4 1/2 stars
Scott Yanow
Her voice is strong, beautiful, and flexible, and she
sounds equally at home in jazz and salsa. ...sounds
like one of the top salsa singers on the scene. ...no
one is more stirring on this set than Kat Parra, who
has quickly emerged to be a force to be reckoned with.
JazzChicago.net CD Review by Brad Walseth
Parra's vocals which range from audacious to sublime, are delivered by the singer with fire, fervor and a wellspring of life energy. Parra sings naturally in several languages and her voice is a treat, sweet and sassy. "Azucar De Amor" is the perfect summer music - an alluring outing by a talented vocalist, in which the compositions reflect a well-arranged blend of world styles, and where you find the vocals addictive and rhythms irresistible.
JazzReview
Susan Frances
The rhythms crackle and shine giving the listener an
authentic picture of the music of Latin cultures
ethnicity. Parra's vocals are astonishingly
beautiful, able to turn people's heads in her
direction instantly.
The Star.com (Toronto Star)
Ashante Infantry
[Parra] is imbued with an exquisite, versatile voice
that's emotionally accessible whether delivering an
English jazz standard ("Misty") or retooling ancient
Sephardic tunes ("Esta Montanya D'Enfrente").
Palo Alto Daily News
Paul Freeman
Love is a many-splendored thing. And so is the voice
of Bay Area singer/composer Kat Parra. Her sophomore
album proves to be cause for celebration, displaying
many impressive facets of her talent. Multicultural
flavors spice up the music. Produced by Wayne Wallace,
the tracks brim with rich, lively sounds.
KZSU Review
DECCA
Stylish, sexy Latin jazz from a local vocalist.
[Parra] has got a warm, delicious voice, an effortless
style, and an engaging way of phrasing things.
BIRDS IN FLIGHT
CD Review by Christopher Loudon, JazzTimes, March Issue, 2007
[The song] Birds in Flight... is the centerpiece of the golden-voiced Californian's inaugural disc. The track's tender self-confidence speaks volumes about Parra. She effortlessly shifts from the gently rapturous romanticism of the self-penned "These Old Feelings" and dew-kissed warmth of "Softly as in a Morning Sunrise" (reinvented with an unexpected but intriguing robustness) to the purple-dusk, Middle Eastern majesty of Ellington's "Caravan" and swirling intensity of the 16th-century Sephardic anthem "Kuando el Rey Nimrod." It all adds up to a most propitious debut.
Latin Beat Magazine | Date: 12/1/2006 |
Author: Jesse "Chuy" Varela
KAT PARRA Birds in Flight
On her debut album, Kat Parra shows that she is a musical chameleon who transforms her voice with multi-colored global hues. ...an excellent profile of a gifted singer from the San Jose South Bay, who is rooted in jazz but influenced by a myriad of diverse influences. Kat takes us around the world in a voice blessed with impeccable intonation, phrasing and expression. Kat's voice is eerie and provocative, with an intense passion and absorbing delivery. If you want to discover a singer with gift and promise, Kat Parra is someone that is well-worth searching out.
All Music Guide - 4 stars
Alex Henderson
Rarely have there been jazz vocalists who considered Latin rhythms a main ingredient instead of a side dish, but an exciting exception to that rule is Kat Parra, who shows considerable promise on her first solo album, Birds in Flight. It is not only memorable because it is a stylistic rollercoaster; it is also memorable because Parra brings an abundance of warmth and emotion to her performances. Birds in Flight is a consistently rewarding debut from the risk-taking Parra.
In Bay Area Music, Innovation Rules
by j. poet, The Examiner, Aug 15, 2007
Kat Parra has been singing almost as long as she’s been walking and possesses a rich, expressive soprano that can float like a butterfly and sting like a bee, to plagiarize a phrase.
CD Review by Dick Bogle, The Skanner, Portland, OR
***** (5 Stars!)
“Kat Parra is the answer to the question: “Who is the next great Latin female singer?”
Blessed with a gorgeous voice, whether speaking or singing, her articulation is clear, distinct and conveys her soulful feelings directly to the listener. Couple that with her orchestra, complete with strings, brass and percussion, and her program which encompasses Afro-Cuban, Salsa, Cha Cha, Samba, some with a Middle Eastern flavoring - it is a winner.
All About Jazz CD Review by Dan McClenaghan, Nov. 26, 2006
Birds in Flight, San Francisco Bay Area vocalist Kat Parra’s debut release, could be tagged as Latin jazz, but it proves itself a lot more than that.
This wonderfully produced set brims over with exquisite arrangements, mostly by trombonist/producer Wayne Wallace and pianist Murray Low, who mix the colors of strings, multiple percussion, and brass and reeds into a polished and joyous amalgam.
Birds in Flight is a remarkable debut from a singer with a pure, straightforward delivery and deft songwriting skills, immersed in a cool wash of intricate arrangements.
Chuck Graham, Tucson Citizen, Published: 11.23.2006
Grade: A
“Birds in Flight” (JazzMa Records)
[Birds in Flight] is an impressive debut album both for its musical polish and for the naturalness of Parra's appealing voice, in all languages and settings. The tracks also pulse with the spontaneous enthusiasm of jazz, a sunny and sensual sound that sets this album above the usual Latin jazz release. Parra’s intuition is unerring, and her presence here is commanding, even when she is singing softly. Blessed with a deeper, more sensual voice, she gives a full-bodied feminine quality to every track. Choosing material from so many sources... brings a richness that exploits Parra’s versatility, turning this album into a musical gem with many sparkling facets.
CD Review by Lee Prosser, jazzreview.com
[Parra] is sensitive and spirited in this collection of songs. For a first time out attempt, this CD succeeds with a sweet brilliance and emotional intensity which sets it apart from the crowd.This woman sings with conviction, devotion, and intense feeling. Her voice is full of sweetness, passion, intimacy, and joy. Each song is a testament to Kat Parra's unusual voice and distinctive vocal stylings. There is a direct, open soulfulness which comes across easily in her singing, and it is an enjoyable sound. As a debut CD, this one works. There is a certain style about Kat Parra that adds to the oftentimes poignant vocals, and she has a voice that is fresh and imaginative. If you are new to her sound, please give her new debut CD a try --listen to her voice and be entertained by a fresh, captivating talent.
Scott Yanow, jazz critic, November 2006 issue of the Los Angeles Jazz Scene
"Kat Parra has a beautiful and flexible voice... Kat Parra puts a great deal of feeling into her interpretations and even when singing in languages different than one understands, the sincerity and message come through. Kat Parra is well worth discovering.
Bruce Crowther’s Swing2Bop Review
"A striking singer who brings honesty and integrity to her repertoire. Rich and flowing, her voice demands attention and she delivers wholly satisfying interpretations of a an interesting selection of songs. Accompanied here by instrumentalists such as pianist Murray Low, flautist Masaru Koga, percussionists Michael Spiro, Ravi Gutala and Paul van Wageningen, and guitarist Rick Vandivier, Kat delivers a succession of inventive and exhilarating musical moments. (Buy this now ...)"
Joe Blake, Times Colonist, Calgary Herald, Sunday, December 10, 2006
"Cuban music, flamenco, salsa, samba, trova, Sephardic, even hip-hop, San Francisco Bay-area vocalist Kat Parra covers a wide range on Birds In Flight. A large crew of the Bay area's best musicians cook-up a spicy groove for Parra's expressive vocals. It's a rich big band sound with the bite and sway of Latin jazz at its best."
CD Review/Kat Parra/’Birds In Flight’
"This little kitten will 'purr’ you into submission. Jazz singer Kat Parra sings the American Songbook with panache. Her take on the old chestnut 'Softly As In A Morning Sunrise’ is a study in a gainful & viable vocal perspective that captivates continually. Only a unique kind of persona as Kat could be this spontaneous. Her vocalese is completely honest. In short she offers her listeners a quality of emotion that is inherent. Capable of making her individual vocal statement in the way she delivers her songs."
George W. Carroll/The Musicians’ Ombudsman, ejazznews.com
"This recording serves as my first encounter with the talents of Kat Parra. This is truly an amazing introduction! Kat takes you on a musical journey that celebrates the rich sounds of Jazz, Afro-Latin, Brazilian, Andalucian, and Middle Eastern sounds. Her beautiful voice along with her mature concept of phrasing helps tie this package together into a very satisfying cohesive presentation. Kudos also to Parra for exercising great wisdom in utilizing the talents of The Creme de le Creme of the San Francisco Bay Area. The producer, arrangers, and musicians all put their very best on the table for this session. I cannot wait for the next one. Super Chevere!!!! (that's nuyorican for darn good!)"
Ray Vega, trumpet player, band leader, jazz educator
"Excellent!!
Congratulations, Kat, for a lovely CD. It's a beautiful Bay Area production and all the musicians sound wonderful. Nice selection and sequence of tunes. Great arrangements, and I especially like the way you treated the ballad-type pieces vocally. Hats off as always to engineers Gary Mankin and Ken Lee, too!"
John Santos, Percussionist, composer, writer and educator
"Parra weaves myriad elements together seamlessly as she unearths realms of classic style new to even the avid Latin Jazz aficionado, and she does it with an honesty refreshing to behold these days. This CD offers fresh and timeless tunes in a beautifully organic exposé of rare and precious music. Thanks Kat! May we have some more?"
Hershel Yatovitz (lead guitarist with Chris Isaak, producer, songwriter)
"I received Kat’s “Birds In Flight” CD, which I love. Not only does Kat have a beautiful voice, but I thoroughly enjoyed her compositions, which deeply touched my heart. In her lyrics and in the way she performs each song, you can sense everything that she is feeling, whether it be love, deception, happiness or melancholy. It was good that she followed the advise of Patti Cathcart (whom I’ve always loved how she sings)-when she told Kat to “sing her truth”. Hey, you can’t go wrong with that!"
Viviám Lopez, WDNA, Latin Music Director & Host of “Fusion Latina”, Miami, FL and worldwide at: www.wdna.org
“I listened to the entire album, and it’s terrific! Kat is a fabulous singer and the songs and arrangements are excellent.”
Randy Morse, Producer/Host “The Best of Brazil”, KZUM 89.3 FM, Lincoln, Nebraska USA
I just want to let you know that we are still playing "Birds in Flight" regularly at WICB Ithaca. You are a huge hit among the Jazz DJs especially, and most of them are music majors. They know good jazz when they hear it. I want to thank your album. We all hope to hear more from you in the near future.
Katherine Dippolito, WICB Radio, Ithaca College, Ithaca, New York
“Kat Parra’a voice is lovely, & carries tunes on which I would otherwise pass. ... a different & appealing slant on a Caravan sung south-of-the-border; #7 the lament/anthem (Oleo de una Mujer con Sombrero)--soulful & gorgeous; and, a wonderfully lyrical “Softly as in a Morning Sunrise”. I am extremely impressed w/ Kat’s instrument and how the Band contributes. Thanx for sendin’ “Birds In Flight” KRFC’s way; otherwise I’d never have listened & heard.”
Peter Poses, KRFC, Fort Collins, Colorado
"If you are looking for some refreshing music that will put you in a festive mood, then look no further than Kat Parra’s latest release, “Birds in Flight”. Her music moves the listener on a magical international journey. Parra’s vocal range is brilliantly showcased in her music and leaves the listener desiring more. If you are looking for a new addition to your music collection, this one is it."
Georgia Moncrief, GoGirlsMusic.com
"What a tender - loving - nurturing 'Spirit'...
The arrangements [on Kat Parra’s “Birds in Flight”] are incredible... the musicians so ‘one"
Kate Smith of Kate Smith Promotions
"Even though I did not understand the language she was singing, I could sense through the soul and conviction what she was saying through the music. Keep your ears open, this sultry vocalist is coming up."
Jeff Sloan (Grammy award winning Producer/Engineer)
"It is an honor to have helped Kat Parra with "Birds in Flight". The process was a joy to be involved with. Kat's vocals are inspired."
Wayne Wallace, three-time grammy nominee, trombonist, composer, arranger
"I don't always know in the middle of a project whether it's just ok, or pretty good, or excellent. I knew [Birds in Flight] was good throughout the process, but it was a PLEASURE to sit back and listen to it with a little distance from the process. You have a right to be really proud of it... it is EXCELLENT!"
Gary Mankin, Award-winning sound engineer
"She [Kat Parra] is a dynamic singer and will knock a few people’s lights out when her CD is released. Wayne "The Dr" Wallace is producing her CD and you know it’s gonna be bad ass if Wayne is in the house. Look out for her soon, folks... "
John Worley, trumpet / flugelhorn player, composer and jazz educator
"The opening act [for Celia Cruz], Charanga Nueve with vocalists Kat Parra and Rafael Castro, was also sensational... "
Brad Kava, San Jose Mercury News, August, 2001