ATTRACTIONS with Bucky Pizzarelli
Cynthia Sayer – banjo, vocals, arrangements Nominated for 2009 Swing Journal Disc Award (Japan) "Notable women in jazz have stood out as singers and sometimes as pianists. Cynthia Sayer has made her mark in the jazz world in an almost unheard of way, on banjo." "Notable women in jazz have stood out as singers and sometimes as pianists. Cynthia Sayer has made her mark in the jazz world in an almost unheard of way, on banjo." "The results are mind blowing…. A totally tasty, head turning, ear opening set that practically defines a genre on its own; this jazzy, snazzy date will turn you into a fan in no time." "Sayer’s playing is far more expansive than the original performers on this instrument." "Cynthia Sayer takes her banjo playing seriously – and so does the regular jazz world." "Sayer hits one out of the park on this delightful disc. The banjo queen… lights up the studio with her crackling string inventions and breezy jazz vocals… [and] displays her regal chops." "She can pick with the confidence of a bluegrass veteran or chomp as cleanly as Freddie Green.” “Best CDs of 2007” List "She can get around her banjo quite well, often soloing in a style akin to electric guitar… “A highly rewarding display of her sensitive playing and her musical intelligence. She is also an earnest singer, someone who changes her approach according to her material, and the material is happily varied ... Each track offers surprises.” “She takes us into places where you’d never expect the banjo to be admitted and makes herself completely at home.” “New and fresh sounds…. with every track full of surprises. In this business, every now and again you turn a corner and come across delights that keep your faith in the music burning. Thank you, Cynthia.” “Versatile banjo stylings as well as a terrific no-nonsense vocal style… Her arrangements are just right, and her sense of showmanship and good humor makes the whole a fresh and exciting experience… She’s expanding the whole concept of the banjo in her own way, much as Bela Fleck has also done in his way. "Cynthia Sayer simply plays the banjo like nobody else that I have heard on the scene today. She takes what is a novelty instrument by today’s jazz standards, and takes it to places where others do not think to voyage." “Cynthia Sayer is a first class jazz banjoist and vocalist. She can swing with the best of them…. If this CD doesn’t change your mind about jazz banjo, nothing will." “Not since Elmer {Snowden] was around had I heard a banjo played with such elegance and versatility.” "One of the few prominent banjo soloists around today … a personable and versatile singer and a skilled arranger." “She plays with class and fire … In her hands the banjo is an eloquent, versatile instrument.” "A virtual smorgasbord …. all done with the good taste we’ve come to expect from Sayer." "Cynthia is a great instrumentalist and vocalist! The backing musicians are fantastic and the program list excellent.” "When this banjo player says she loves many different styles, she is not kidding.” "Outstanding plectrum banjo artistry, augmented by top-notch musicians … a lesson regarding how the banjo can handle a program of diverse material." “In the hands of Cynthia Sayer, the banjo has plenty to say.” “The listener will be instantly mesmerized with the phenomenal banjo playing... “Powerful banjo playing proves her sure ability. Genuine and pure vocal work adds more attraction.” “A virtuoso on the banjo … ebullient arrangements ... Vocally Sayer is a charmer... eclectic and fun.” “She is tenacious in her ability to swing the juice out of anything that comes her way.” "Cynthia Sayer is top notch as a vocalist and banjoist. This record is joyful, enthusiastic and swings gracefully. 5 STARS" “Cynthia Sayer invigorates jazz banjo.”
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