Two contemporary artists that have revived an entire era of music.

American Songbook:
Jazz with John and Jane

Just when we thought the golden age of music had died, along comes two stellar practitioners to prove us wrong. And what a treat they are.

John Pizzarelli and Jane Monheit epitomize all that's good about jazz and the music from the Big Band era. Yes, they are both American, but so is jazz and the music from the 1930s and 1940s. If you are outside of those parameters, do not fret. Come on in and join in the fun. You will discover a style, a sound, and a rhythm that is the stuff of universal pleasure. John Pizzarelli is uncanny at his craft. He has a style with a guitar and a way with scat that set him apart from all others. He should: His dad is Bucky Pizzarelli, one of the surviving legends from that era who can still pluck those strings with the skill of a master magician. And if you are soft of heart and a pushover for things romantic like me, you will fall in love with Jane Monheit. She has the looks of Marilyn Monroe, the style Ella Fitzgerald, and a way with an old love song that mesmerizes my brain and captures my soul. I will share her with you. Just don't tell me about your fantasies. I'm busy with my own.

Actually, neither of these two performers is a neophyte in the world of music. They both are well established with large followings. It's just that they are so good at what they do, they stand apart from all others. They have taken an era of music and given it a lift into a new songbook. In their performances you can hear a little bit of Gershwin, and Goodman, and Ellington, and Jo Stafford. You can feel the beat of “Fasinatin' Rhythm” or mellow out to the soothing sounds of Billie Holiday or Peggy Lee.

I could go on and on about this dynamic duo, but why delay your magical trip with the featured singers and songs? Here is Jane singing “Over the Rainbow” like you have never, ever heard it sung before:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gec0LKIGPKw

And John displays his jazz talents with a rendition of “I've Got Rhythm” the likes of which—well, just click here (or cut and paste) and get dazzled to pieces:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OZ5KYc_s4bE