Bob Levy
While I’m Still Here
(Silk River Music)
March 8, 2022
Reviewed by John Hoglund
Multi-award-winning songwriter Bob Levy’s new CD, While I’m Still Here, is his most ambitious album to date, featuring a wide variety of quality singers and musicians.
A decisively collaborative effort, Levy combines the talents of some of today’s most respected artists on one disc. This is his 11th album, and it is a profound collection of original songs, some of which he wrote with various others, including Alex Rybeck, Drew Paralic, Tracy Stark, and Ronny Whyte. To his credit and perseverance, it should be noted that due to various limitations of the pandemic, Levy and his collaborators had to record at several studios that involved instrumental tracks at one; vocals at another; in a home studio; and miscellaneous tracks like drums, trumpet, etc. at yet another location. The outstanding vocalists include Benny Benack III, Nicolas King, Laurie Krauz, Jennifer Roberts, Jinny Sagorin, Marcus Simeone, Dane Vannatter, and Nicole Zuriatis.
The theme here is that of moving on after the storm. The physical disconnect brought on by the pandemic cries out for reflection, and the recording suggests that self-awareness and empathy are crucial for a meaningful life. Levy has captured all that on this compelling disc.
During the past two years, the world has slowly returned to a resemblance of life as we once knew it. In the spirit of moving forward, Levy hits the jackpot on a worthy disc overflowing with highlights that capture what everyone has been through, and what everyone faces. The songs were inspired by the frightening health and isolation events that affected the world. With minimal emphasis on heartbreak and an unyielding focus on recovery, Levy shines a light on healing on this 17-track CD. The physical disconnect that occurred as a result of the pandemic invites gentle reflection. Fusing contemplation with pensive musings are a forte of Levy’s on this eclectic disc that deserves wide exposure. Many tracks offer powerful or subtle messages that possess an exceptional degree of honesty along with an emphasis on jazz-tinged melodies and great arrangements.
On the album’s title cut, Jennifer Roberts (who is heard on several tracks) sings “I want to take life in the fullest way/there is so much more/it’s never too late before I go.” It is beautifully sung with poignancy and deft phrasing, and it brings this gem to a peak of unrequited longing. With Daryl Kojak on piano and Howie Gordon on percussion supporting Roberts’ silvery soprano, the song is a standout. She is also heard on Levy’s “Someone Falls in Love with You,” “Christmas Eve is Here Again,” and “I Won’t Sing a Song About Love.”
Nicolas King’s showy jazz/scat take on “Live, Love and Laugh” (Levy/Whyte) is an upbeat romp about the positive side of life and about letting go to have some fun. King’s confident baritone swings effortlessly on this memorably phrased tune that. recalling Mel Tormé at his peak. “Let There Be Peace” (Levy/Stark) is sung by Marcus Simeone, who is also heard on “That’s You & I” (Levy), “Winter’s Flight” (Levy/Rybeck) and “Say Goodnight” (Levy). It is compellingly sung and includes Simone’s frequent musical partner, guitarist Sean Harkness. The song is a paean to hope. Its stirring message, seamless vocals, and Harkness’ intricate guitar solos are outstanding. With a full orchestra (and proper marketing), this song could be this decade’s “You Raise Me Up,” given its message of triumph. It is another example of the hope that defines the CD.
Other highlights include the Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Nicole Zuraitis who is heard on three tracks: “Don’t Follow Me,” “When We Sing Again” (both written with Stark who is also on piano), and “I Fell in Love” (written with Rybeck, who provides the piano accompaniment). It also has Benack on trumpet and Rex Benincasa on percussion. Zuraitis has an expressive mezzo that flows like honey. She’s a standout on “When We Sing Again,” another highlight, which also has Benack on trumpet and Benincasa on percussion. On each cut, Zuraitis shows an intoxicating vocal precision that hits the mark. Offering more vocal purity, there’s Dane Vannatter, who’s been singing Levy’s songs for years. He brings his jazz tenor to an excellent “The Best Part of Me” (Levy/Rybeck) with Daniel May on piano. The album is alive with such outstanding performances and quality singing throughout.
The multi-talented musicians also present include pianists Doug Hammer and Daniel May; bassist Steve Doyle; cellist Clay Ruede; trumpeter Bud Burridge; and percussionists Steve Chaggaris, Dan Gross, and Howie Gordon. In addition to being a fine vocalist, Benny Benack III is a skilled trumpeter on the rise. Tracy Stark is credited with orchestrations on several exemplary cuts on the disc.
Bob Levy has produced a high-quality CD of superb songs that deserve to be heard. It is patiently assembled and filled with songs that reflect our lives and hopes for the future. Ultimately, the songs offer the musings of a gifted songwriter who recalls the past with reverence and looks to the future with optimism. It is his best album to date.
