When you think “Afternoon Delight” think Jazz Pianist Barbara Carroll, whose inspiring performance at the Algonquin Hotel will leave you with one word on your mind… outstanding!

Opening with an immediately enjoyable Sondheim song “Waiting For The Girls Upstairs,” Ms. Carroll sets the perfect tone for this memorable performance. Her flowing piano overture arouses curiosity then eases into a bright, swinging rhythm… and she never looks back! She moves freely through numerous melodic genres: Sondheim… Rogers & Hart… Ellington and Gershwin, and presents these diverse musical selections with a graceful balance.

Ms. Carroll, with her charming interlude storytelling and her longtime colleague Jay Leonhart, on bass, creates an array of intimate musical moments that give a music lover’s heart a wonderful and sentimental feeling… a feeling that is rare by today’s standards.

One fond and entertaining memory she recalled occurred at the legendary Down Beat Club on 52nd street during the time when it was known as “The Street That Never Slept”. Charlie Parker was introducing Ms. Carroll to Sarah Vaughan, and in the typical characteristic of the “Cool Jazz Era” he said: “I think it’s about time you two chick piano players get to know each other.”  With laughter from the audience and without missing a beat, she moved to her distinctive, appealing piano style and delighted everyone with the lively “Billy’s Bounce” by Charlie Parker.

Ms. Carroll provides subtle voice inflections and touching vocal performances, especially on the Charles Strouse’s beauty, “Is There Anything Better than Dancing?" Her captivating interpretation of “Old Friends,” which has become one of Ms. Carroll’s signature songs, certainly will awaken one’s nostalgic memories.

Being at a Barbara Carroll show is a musical experience. She is an extraordinary artist who gives you music the way it’s meant to be heard! 

JazzMonthly.com

Barbara Carroll will be performing through December 28th, 2008 in the Algonquin Hotel’s Oak Room at the Sunday Jazz Brunch.

Algonquin Hotel  - 59 west 44th street - NYC. For Reservations: 212-840-6800