Body and Soul

William Henderson brings to the classic American standards of Rogers and Hart, Cole Porter, Hoagie Carmichael, and others, the styling of the jazz artist, combining the precision of pitch, the warm and sophisticated voice, and the fluid phrasing which recall a time when "jazz" and "popular music" meant much the same thing. It all sounds true, and finding true music in an age of commercial fluff and computerized responses to popularity polls is like sifting through ashes and finding a diamond: it's too good to be true. Yet, here it is: very, very good — and true. Henderson is a fine guitarist and often accompanies himself, but, like most honest jazz singers, admits that he prefers singing with good jazz combos, and especially, fine big bands. Henderson has appeared at clubs in Boston; Washington, DC; Panama City, Florida; and extensively in Naples, Italy. He has performed a number of times on Italian television. He has made 6 albums: Live at the AOC (1994), Dual Cool, with trumpeter Hunter Hustus, and his latest 4, A Slice Of The Moon, Stars Fell on Alabama, The Lady is a Tramp, and I’m In the Mood for Love (available now, on line). Among many performances in Italy, he has appeared in Sanremo, Rome, and Milan with the US Navy 6th Fleet band, and with that band also sang at the 2000 Split, Croatia, Jazz Festival. So, indeed, there is a common lament that "They don't write songs the way they used to,” and, alas, there is some truth in that. But they do still sing them! At least some people do. William Henderson, for one. Jeff Matthews Franco De Crescenzo is a superb and innovative pianist who has played with many of the great jazz and pop stars of Europe, including Pino Danieli. He has played in most of the important jazz clubs in Italy and continues to inspire his audiences wherever he plays. Franco Coppola is a extraordinary all around wood-wind musician. On this album he plays flute as it fits best with the Trio. Franco has played in many jazz clubs in Italy and Europe and has been teaching music for many years.