Diana Krall’s “The Look of Love,” released in 2001, is a jazz album that stands out for its lush arrangements and Krall’s sultry vocals. The album is highly regarded in audiophile circles for its warm, detailed production and Krall’s intimate, nuanced performance.
Here’s a detailed audiophile review of each track, focusing on the recording quality and sonic characteristics:
‘S Wonderful
Recording Quality:
The album opens with a lively rendition of this classic. The recording captures the full-bodied tone of the piano and the subtle nuances of the percussion and bass.
Highlights:
Krall’s vocals are clear and resonate with warmth, perfectly complementing the vibrant piano and rhythmic accompaniment.
Love Letters
Recording Quality:
This track features a more subdued, romantic feel. The intimate recording showcases the breathy quality of Krall’s voice and the gentle touch on the piano.
Highlights:
The orchestral strings add a lush, cinematic quality to the track, captured with a richness that enhances the overall mood.
I Remember You
Recording Quality:
The song presents a delicate balance between Krall’s piano playing and her vocals. The clarity of the recording allows for each instrument in the ensemble to be distinctly heard.
Highlights:
The interplay between the piano and the brushed drums is a highlight, providing a soft yet rhythmically engaging backdrop.
Cry Me a River
Recording Quality:
The track stands out for its dramatic, atmospheric arrangement. The recording captures the depth and space of the orchestral elements, while Krall’s voice remains the focal point.
Highlights:
The echo and reverb on Krall’s vocals give the song a haunting quality, beautifully offset by the clarity of the string arrangements.
Besame Mucho
Recording Quality:
A sultry and rhythmic track, “Besame Mucho” is showcased by its rich, dynamic sound. The recording quality is excellent, with the bass and percussion providing a solid foundation.
Highlights:
Krall’s emotive vocal performance is front and center, with the piano and rhythm section adding to the track’s sensual feel.
The Night We Called It a Day
Recording Quality:
This ballad features a spacious and emotive recording. The piano and orchestral elements are warm and resonant, creating a dreamy soundscape.
Highlights:
The subtlety in Krall’s vocal delivery and the piano’s gentle accompaniment are captured with an impressive clarity.
Dancing in the Dark
Recording Quality:
The track has a melancholic, introspective quality. The recording captures the expressive nuances of Krall’s voice and the piano’s harmonic richness.
Highlights:
The string arrangement adds a layer of depth and emotion, recorded with a lushness that envelops the listener.
I Get Along Without You Very Well
Recording Quality:
A minimalist arrangement allows Krall’s voice and piano to shine. The recording is intimate, highlighting the delicate interplay between the vocals and piano.
Highlights:
Krall’s emotive phrasing and the piano’s reflective quality are rendered with a touching clarity.
The Look of Love
Recording Quality:
The title track is a standout for its luxurious, cinematic feel. The orchestral backing is grand yet not overwhelming, allowing Krall’s voice to remain the centerpiece.
Highlights:
The warmth and depth of the string section are particularly well-captured, complementing the velvety quality of Krall’s vocals.
Maybe You’ll Be There
Recording Quality:
The album closes with a beautifully recorded track that combines a sense of longing with a lush arrangement. The balance between the vocals, piano, and orchestral elements is masterful.
Highlights:
The emotional resonance in Krall’s voice is palpable, and the orchestral backing is captured with a richness that enhances the poignant mood of the song.
Overall Assessment
“The Look of Love” by Diana Krall is an audiophile treasure, offering a masterclass in vocal jazz recording. The album’s production is impeccable, with a clarity and warmth that bring out the subtleties of Krall’s performance and the sophisticated arrangements. Each track is a testament to the high standards of recording and mixing, making this album a go-to reference for testing the capabilities of a high-fidelity audio system. The combination of Krall’s emotive, intimate vocal style and the rich, detailed soundscapes makes “The Look of Love” a must-have for jazz enthusiasts and audiophiles alike.