Thanks to Wynton Marsalis or whomever realized that there was a Betty Carter (1929-1998) show in the vaults just begging to be released, because The Music Never Stops (Blue Engine Records) is out, and it's simply astonishing; this jazz singing is truly on another level.
Recorded at NYC's Aaron Davis Hall and presented by Jazz at Lincoln Center on March 29th, 1992, BC's performance possesses uncommon grace and fire, standing with some of her other brilliant live albums, like 1969's Finally and 1980's The Audience with Betty Carter. I also have a copy of 1990's Droppin' Things, where the live tracks are less than impressive.
The Music Never Stops is no patchwork. It's a complete show full of textures and modes both subtle and powerful, from the sustained, entrancing quietness of "Why Him?/Where or When/What's New" to the soaring update of Carter's classic "Tight" to Cole Porter's hilarious "Most Gentlemen Don't Like Love," a reading both lighthearted and cutting. Back in the 1980s, a version of "What's New" recorded onstage with Carmen McRae always moved me because of the obvious contrast in their singing styles and personalities, yet the Never Stops take is even more endearing. Without the distraction of another voice (and McRae was glorious, mind you), there's a stronger focus on what makes the song work.
There are three different bands on The Music Never Stops--consistent, sparkling and, well, tight. The piano work of Cyrus Chestnut is especially fine, and the late Geri Allen guests. As for what Carter does throughout (her shading, changing tones more than once during just one phrase), it's awe-inspiring. Betty Carter just didn't get her due the way she should have, did she?