“The Mona Lisa smile, the deceptively childlike voice, and the featherweight but swinging touch on the piano made Blossom Dearie a cult figure of undying fascination. Yvonne Monnett first saw her at the defunct Providence jazz club Allary’s around 1972. “She was awesome in a quiet way,” says Yvonne. “Years later, I recognized what a treasure she was.” This is her love letter to Dearie, who died in 2009. Yvonne’s charm may shine the brightest on 'Rhode Island is Famous for You.' Yvonne includes the verse, which Dearie never sang. As she savors every phrase of this witty slice of Americana, Yvonne demonstrates all the reasons why she has delighted New Englanders for decades.
– James Gavin, music journalist and biographer
“Yvonne is one of those quiet giants who is often described as understated, but this shouldn’t be confused with under-rated. At the keyboard, she effortlessly elevates the musical experience by the way she supports her playmates with delicacy and grace. At the microphone, her light and youthful sound as a singer serves up both precision and soul. Her dynamic, masterful approach can quickly own the room and all those in it – audience and musicians alike. As a vocalist, I literally am safe in her hands.” – Amanda Carr, vocalist |
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