Life Is Funny That Way [CD]

Acclaimed vocalist-lyricist-arranger Fay Victor & her Herbie Nichols SUNG Quintet celebrate & thoroughly reconsider the rich legacy of jazz composer Herbie Nichols with Life Is Funny That Way, and bring it singing boldly into this century. Following on Billie Holiday, who famously wrote "Lady Sings The Blues" to Nichols' "Serenade," Victor developed this deep love project over the course of decade, after years of exploring the late composer's work. This landmark album marks the first time that a full program of lyrics have been written & recorded for Nichols' compositions. The innovative arrangements -also by Victor- are brought to vibrant life by a dedicated & deeply gifted quintet of veteran performers; Michaël Attias (alto & baritone sax), Anthony Coleman (piano), Ratzo Harris (bass), and Tom Rainey (drums).   The source material is from Nichols' Blue Note sessions of 1955-56, plus three compositions not recorded in his lifetime. With erudite & extensive liners by Kevin Whitehead.