Search - Carmen Lundy: Jazz & The New Songbook - Live at the Madrid on DVD

Visual and Musical Masterpiece

JazzLoveLive | 04/12/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have watched other musical DVDs in the past but, this DVD was so captivating. The visual sets and the musical compositions are outstanding. Carmen has such great presence and great vocal artistry. The supporting musicians are fantastic and work very well together. The only thing that could have been better was to have attended the live concert in 02/05. Luckily, with this DVD, we can relive those moments. There should be an award for best musical DVD, I am sure that this one would win "Hands-Down"."

Mesmerizing Jazz Diva In Concert!!!!!

Beverly Praiswater | 02/14/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is the jazz concert to end them all! From the visual production, the musical production, and the editing, this dvd concert deserves an award. The spectrum of talent on the stage is brilliantly evident from the opening number and believe me, it only gets better with each song.

Each composition is rich like a fine tapestry as ballads and up-tempo numbers are interwoven into a masterpiece. If you are already familiar with Ms. Carmen Lundy then you are in store for a wonderful journey that far exceeds any of her studio recordings, as only a visual performance can bring. If you are not familiar with Carmen, get ready to be impressed!

Ms. Lundy's stage presence is sweetly seasoned. She feels the music so thoroughly in her soul. There are deeply passionate moments as well as light comic ones. All of these songs are composed and arranged by Ms. Lundy. She brings unique freshness to her songs each time she sings them.

Now for some highlights: Carmen's vocal on her composition of "One More River To Cross" is sublime with Billy Childs on piano. "Where'd It Go" has some complex vocal arrangements and an awesome piano solo/accompaniment from Robert Glasper. The performance of "Afrasia!" has the most glorious interpretation of any song I think I have ever heard. It is at once complex, raw, yet delicate. "Long Journey Home" is a gripping jazz number which showcases many of the talented musicians on stage. Bobby Watson in particular is an accomplished artist. "You're Not In Love" highlights the highs and lows found in Carmen's sophisticated voice. "All Day, All Night" is an intense up-tempo thrill. "Old Friend" is the most poignant song in Carmen's repertoire. Her delicate vocal can touch you deeply to tears. And the finale "In Living Color" is dynamic as it showcases each musician.

One cannot talk about the musicians without mentioning Curtis Lundy. Carmen's brother Curtis is a musical genius whose strength and sensitivity tends to remain in the background. He is a serious bassist and has several amazing recordings of his own. And you can find excellent vocals from Carmen on his cds also.

The visual production includes marvelous close-ups of Ms. Lundy as well as creative images of the musicians. You immediately have the feeling of being on the stage next to the artists. Do not miss the bonus cuts which are stunning. And don't miss the documentary or the photo gallery. Even the credits at the end of the concert are phenomenal! Check out the videos of this concert on You Tube.

There is no doubt that Ms. Carmen Lundy is the best female jazz singer/composer of our time. This dvd is spellbinding proof of her talents. Do NOT allow yourself to miss this one!!!!! Definitely the best jazz dvd of 2005. (maybe ever!!!!)"

Fantastic Package.

Jazz Analyst | Los Angeles, CA USA | 03/26/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This a great concert DVD. Carmen Lundy is a wonderful singer and composer. She is fantastic is this live concert performance in a small theatre in Los Angeles. She is supported by a group of outstanding musicians in performances of her own compositions. The musicians include Bobby Watson, Steve Turre, Victor Lewis, Smitty Smith, Nathan East, Billy Childs, Robert Glasper, Phil Upchurch and Mark Shim. The photography and sound are first rate. At times, there are two drummers and three bassists on stage, but the music supports the numbers of musicians, and things stay organized. The band looks and sounds like they are having a great time. Ms. Lundy displays her wonderful vocal range and dynamite personality. There are many fine female jazz singers at this time, but Carmen Lundy stands apart because she also such a wonderful songwriter. She is deserving of a larger audience and much wider recognition."

Old friend...

songba | bronx, ny USA | 08/29/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"this is an eminent jazz singer and composer in outstanding form! carmen is absolutely wonderful and the music she dresses herself in is supreme. a love supreme, this one is. a love supreme..."