Debbie Deane, "Red Ruby Stars" - Scott Yanow Review

Debbie Deane

Red Ruby Stars

(Modern Icon/Ropeadope)

Debbie Deane is a superior singer/songwriter whose recordings also display the inspiration of her jazz background. Her debut album in 2005 had tenor-sax great Joshua Redman and guitarist Wayne Krantz in the supporting cast while her second recording was released on Ravi Coltrane’s label and included saxophonist Chris Cheek. For her first recording in 14 years, the singer (who is also heard on keyboards and on one song on acoustic guitar) has the great drummer Brian Blade in her core band and there are two appearances by tenor-saxophonist Donny McCaslin. Her soul-searching set of new songs straddles the boundaries between modern folk, sophisticated pop and funky groove music.

Debbie Deane’s dozen originals cover a variety of universal topics including letting go of the past, a marriage breakup, and the loss of an important person on 9/11. Despite those and other serious issues, there is a feeling of optimism and even occasional joy in her music, showing listeners that she will persevere and not only survive but prosper. Displaying an attractive and versatile voice, Ms. Deane introduces such numbers as the happy “La Dee Da” (which could be used as a singalong), “Red Ruby Stars” (a picturesque ballad), the funky and celebratory “Walkin’ In The Rain,” an intriguing and rockish “Read My Mind,” and the infectious “Label Love.”

Those who enjoy high quality singer-songwriters who are not shy to displays honest emotions in their music will want to pick up Debbie Deane’s latest recording.

Scott Yanow,

jazz and blues journalist