Diana Krall, a name synonymous with the modern jazz scene, is not just a musician but a storyteller whose narrative is woven through her rich catalog of music. Her voice, both on piano and in song, has touched the hearts of jazz aficionados and newcomers alike. This 3000-word article embarks on an exhaustive journey through every album Diana Krall has released, exploring her evolution, her music's impact, and why she remains a pivotal figure in jazz. Diana Krall Album!
Introduction:
Brief Biography: Born in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada, in 1964, Diana Krall's early life was steeped in music, influenced by her father, a stride pianist. Her formal training led her to the Berklee College of Music, setting the stage for a career that would blend the traditional with the innovative.
Overview of Her Career: From her first steps into the recording world to becoming a multi-Grammy winner, Krall's albums reflect a journey of personal and musical growth, showcasing her as both an interpreter of jazz standards and a creator of new music.
Album-by-Album Review:
1. "Stepping Out" (1993)
Album Context: Krall's debut album, recorded when she was still relatively unknown outside jazz circles, sets a tone of pure, unadulterated jazz.
Key Tracks: "I Love Being Here With You," "This Can't Be Love."
Review: The album is raw and energetic, with Krall's piano taking center stage. It's a testament to her foundational talent, showing influences from Nat King Cole and Oscar Peterson. The sound is intimate, almost like sitting in a small jazz club.
2. "Only Trust Your Heart" (1995)
Musical Evolution: Here, Krall begins to carve her own path with more original interpretations of standards.
Key Tracks: "I Hear Music," "Only Trust Your Heart."
Review: The album showcases a maturing artist, with a refined touch on the piano and a voice that starts to reveal its captivating depth. This album marks the beginning of her collaboration with producer Tommy LiPuma, which would influence her sound for years to come.
3. "All for You" (1996)
Tribute to Nat King Cole: An homage to one of her biggest influences, this album reimagines Cole's classics.
Key Tracks: "The Best Is Yet to Come," "I'm an Errand Girl for Rhythm."
Review: Krall steps into the shoes of Cole, not merely covering but interpreting his music with a personal touch. It's a pivotal moment where her voice and piano become indistinguishable from her identity as an artist.
4. "Love Scenes" (1997)
Romantic Jazz: This album encapsulates the mood of love and late-night intimacy.
Key Tracks: "Peel Me a Grape," "The Look of Love."
Review: Krall's voice here is at its most seductive, capturing the essence of jazz's romanticism. The album's production enhances this mood, making it a favorite for those looking for music to set a romantic scene.
5. "When I Look in Your Eyes" (1999)
Breakthrough Album: This album marked Krall's entry into mainstream success, winning two Grammys.
Key Tracks: "Let's Fall in Love," "The Night We Called It a Day."
Review: It's here that Krall's star truly begins to shine. The album is a blend of new recordings and re-recordings of previous hits, with a lush, orchestrated sound that broadens her appeal without losing the jazz essence.
6. "The Look of Love" (2001)
Chart-Topping Success: Another Grammy-winning album, this one explores Brazilian influences.
Key Tracks: "The Look of Love," "S'Wonderful."
Review: With Claus Ogerman's arrangements, this album dives into bossa nova and samba, offering a smoother, more accessible version of Krall's music that still maintains her jazz integrity.
7. "Live in Paris" (2002)
Live Performance: Captures the magic of Krall's live shows, recorded at the Paris Olympia.
Key Tracks: "Let's Fall in Love," "The Look of Love."
Review: This live album shows Krall at her most dynamic, with extended solos and an interaction with the audience that adds warmth and spontaneity to her music.
8. "The Girl in the Other Room" (2004)
New Direction: A significant shift where Krall includes her own compositions and covers pop songs, co-written with Elvis Costello.
Key Tracks: "The Girl in the Other Room," "Temptation."
Review: This album is both a departure and an extension of her artistry, exploring darker, more introspective themes. It's a bold move that broadens her musical palette but divides her traditional jazz fanbase.
9. "From This Moment On" (2006)
Return to Roots: After the experimental "The Girl in the Other Room," Krall returns to jazz standards.
Key Tracks: "From This Moment On," "I Was Doing All Right."
Review: This album reaffirms her status in jazz, with a focus on showcasing her interpretation skills and deep connection to the genre. The production is crisp, giving each note clarity.
10. "Quiet Nights" (2009)
Bossa Nova Influence: Delving deeper into Brazilian music, this album is a serene journey through night.
Key Tracks: "Quiet Nights," "The Boy from Ipanema."
Review: Krall's voice and the album's arrangements create a perfect late-night listen, with each track feeling like a quiet conversation in a dimly lit room.
11. "Glad Rag Doll" (2012)
Vintage Vibe: A trip back to the 1920s and '30s, exploring early jazz and blues.
Key Tracks: "Glad Rag Doll," "There Ain't No Sweet Man That's Worth the Salt of My Tears."
Review: With T Bone Burnett's production, this album has a raw, earthy feel, contrasting with her usual polished sound, showing Krall's versatility.
12. "Wallflower" (2015)
Pop-Jazz Fusion: Covering pop hits with a jazz twist, this album is a testament to Krall's broad musical taste.
Key Tracks: "California Dreamin'," "Desperado."
Review: An interesting experiment where Krall transforms well-known songs into jazz pieces, maintaining her signature style while inviting a new audience.
13. "Turn Up the Quiet" (2017)
Back to Basics: A return to the intimate, jazz-centric performances that made her name.
Key Tracks: "L-O-V-E," "Night and Day."
Review: This album strips back the layers to focus on her voice and piano, offering a collection of beautifully interpreted standards.
14. "This Dream of You" (2020)
Latest Reflections: Recorded during the early days of the global lockdown, it's introspective and poignant.
Key Tracks: "This Dream of You," "Almost Like Being in Love."
Review: The album reflects the times, with a contemplative mood, showcasing Krall's ability to connect through her music in moments of solitude.
Conclusion - Diana Krall Album
Diana Krall's Legacy: Krall's journey through jazz is one of evolution, innovation, and a deep respect for the genre's history. Her albums not only entertain but educate, inviting listeners into the world of jazz with open arms.
Future Prospects: Given her track record, one can anticipate more explorations, perhaps further afield into new genres or a deeper dive into her roots, always with her distinctive voice and piano leading the way.
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