Mind you, when a person goes “on the road,” that could mean anything from touring the state, to doing a circuit that connects you with the cream of the crop in jazz talent. She is used to doing it all. This time however, her highness has taken off to Russia where the crowds are eager and she is all too ready to please. And please she does, in a big way. One only needs to see the looks on the faces of the fans that have come to know her presence, and her style. The “Queen” still calls New York her home, so you don’t need a trunk and a visa to bask in the Garland glow.

One could download her CD’s and get a taste of the excitement. It’s the live performances that are the key. Please don’t go to the clubs where she performs in New York and expect some over the top gospel experience. If I fault critics for anything it’s the way they seem to lump R&B, Jazz and Gospel into one big ball of creative expression. It’s simply not true. All due respect to the critics, but there is a difference, and one should not be fooled. Critics have done a grave disservice when they try and make all jazz singers “sassy and all gospel singers’ jazz divas in their interpretations. When you want jazz and musical interpretations, Grace Garland delivers. People work hard on their craft should count on us to embrace the distinctions.

Over the past few months, the lady has gathered her sexiest garments, her hat boxes, and most importantly her crisp phrasing, to the point lyrics and music, and taken you on her journey to Russia. She has made a point to study the language one expression at a time, and even when she isn’t sure, the audience embraces her because she is true to the music and the intent. She carries those lessons with her whether at home or abroad. More importantly, she gives back. Ask anyone at “Hearts and Voices,” if Grace alters her performance in any way. Whether she is singing to one, or one thousand, she brings you in and makes you feel that the song is just for you. She touches the audience when she is in Russia or the lower East side. The mark of a true artist is to make you believe that the song is simply for your ears only. Because she is a song writer with heart and soul, she can not only deliver the standards, but she presents her own songs with a vibrancy and legitimacy of a lady who has lived and breathed the music. Sadly, some critics can’t hear the distinctions. I am sure that her audiences do by the time the evening is over.
Her experiences on the road to Russia have only added to what is a great evening of entertainment. Her selection of musicians will leave you feeling surprised, relaxed, entertained and hungry for that which audiences should demand…a craving for more.

I invite you to see her this Thursday and every Thursday at The Anyway Café. Check out http://www.anywaycafe.com for more information. Her website will keep you in the loop and in the know. If you love all things Grace, go to www.gracegarland.com. Ask her why “Lovers Never Lie in Bed,” and she might even clue you in to why “Loneliness Makes You Stupid.” Curious? Good. Check her out and have a shot of Vodka and some caviar for me!

Photo: Courtesy of GraceGarland.com