Kurt Elling, the Grammy-winning vocalist, invites you into a world of rich vocal jazz with his 2016 album "Upward Spiral." This captivating collection of tracks showcases Elling's signature blend of lyrical prowess and improvisational skill, backed by the stellar accompaniment of Joey Calderazzo on piano, Eric Revis on bass, and Justin Faulkner on drums.
The album opens with "There's a Boat Dat's Leavin' Soon for New York," setting the tone for a journey through a mix of standards and original compositions. Elling's velvety voice shines on ballads like "I'm a Fool to Want You" and "Blue Velvet," while he displays his dynamic range and playful spirit on tracks like "Doxy" and "West Virginia Rose." The Brazilian influence is felt on "Só Tinha de Ser Com Você," adding a touch of global flavor to the album.
"Upward Spiral" is not just a showcase of Elling's vocal abilities but also a testament to his collaborative spirit. The chemistry between Elling and his bandmates is palpable, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience. The album closes with a bonus track, "Long as You're Living," leaving you eager for more.
With a runtime of over an hour and ten minutes, "Upward Spiral" is a substantial and satisfying listen for any jazz enthusiast. Elling's unique approach to vocal jazz makes this album a standout in his impressive discography.
Tracks
There's a Boat Dat's Leavin' Soon for New York (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
Blue Gardenia (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
From One Island to Another (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
Practical Arrangement (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
Doxy (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
I'm a Fool to Want You (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
West Virginia Rose (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
Só Tinha de Ser Com Você (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
Momma Said (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
Cassandra Song (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
Blue Velvet (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
The Return (Upward Spiral) (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
Long as You're Living (Bonus Track) (with Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis & Justin Faulkner)Kurt Elling, Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, Justin Faulkner
Whether you're just starting your vinyl collection or have been spinning for years, the right turntable makes all the difference. We've selected the best options for every budget.
Whether a review is positive, negative, or neutral, we always publish it. However, we screen every review to ensure it is authentic and free of profanity. These checks happen automatically, though a human occasionally steps in. We never pay for reviews.
Looking for "Upward Spiral" on vinyl?
We don't have a live price right now, but stock fluctuates daily. You can check for hidden stock on Amazon directly, or let us alert you as soon as it is available.
