Move over, Ella Fitz and Ol' Blue Eyes. There's a new standout interpreter of classic pop songs in town. Yes, Patricia Barber's The Cole Porter Mix belongs on the same level of amazing as the work of the 20th
century's most famous singers. Barber's attention to detail,
exploration of lyrical meaning and rejuvenation of familiar tunes that,
in her grasp, now sound new again, are that good. Anyone put off by
Barber's artsy flights on her other records will want to put such
reservations aside. The Cole Porter Mix is more about the song
than how one develops and arrives at an arrangement. There's no
high-arch poetry here, just sumptuous melodies and subtle rhythmic
devices. Solo saxophone flights by guest Chris Potter and understated
guitar work by longtime Barber foil Neal Alger fill the arrangements
with an ideal balance of grit and grace. Factor in Barber's erotic
tones, playful humor and fine piano playing, and this set of pop
standards is love at first listen.