Diana Krall’s ‘Turn Up the Quiet’ CD: A Deep Dive into a Masterpiece

Diana Krall’s ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ CD stands as a testament to her enduring artistry and profound connection to the Great American Songbook. Released in 2017, this album is not merely a collection of songs; it’s an immersive experience, a masterclass in jazz interpretation, and a poignant reflection on life, love, and loss. For aficionados and newcomers alike, ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ offers a rich tapestry of musical moments, showcasing Krall’s signature smoky vocals, impeccable piano skills, and the exceptional musicianship of her collaborators.

The Genesis of ‘Turn Up the Quiet’

The creation of ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ was a deeply personal journey for Diana Krall. Following the passing of her longtime producer and mentor, Tommy LiPuma, Krall sought to create an album that honored his legacy while also exploring new sonic territories. The album’s title, ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘, reflects this intention – a deliberate choice to focus on subtlety, nuance, and emotional depth rather than bombastic displays of virtuosity. This is an album where the silences speak as loudly as the notes.

Reuniting with Legendary Producers

To bring her vision to life, Krall enlisted the help of three legendary producers: Tommy LiPuma (posthumously), Al Schmitt, and Joe Harley. LiPuma’s previous work with Krall had established a strong foundation of trust and understanding, while Schmitt’s unparalleled experience in recording jazz legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra brought a wealth of knowledge to the project. Joe Harley, known for his work with audiophile labels, ensured the album’s sonic integrity. This collaboration of production titans resulted in a recording that is both intimate and expansive, capturing the essence of Krall’s artistry with stunning clarity.

Track-by-Track Analysis: A Journey Through the Songbook

‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ features a carefully curated selection of songs from the Great American Songbook, each chosen for its emotional resonance and potential for Krall’s unique interpretation.

• “Like Someone in Love”: The album opens with a playful and swinging rendition of this classic tune, immediately setting a joyful and sophisticated tone. Krall’s piano playing is light and nimble, and her vocals are filled with warmth and charm.
• “Isn’t It Romantic?”: This Rodgers and Hart standard receives a tender and heartfelt treatment, highlighting the song’s inherent beauty and longing. Krall’s phrasing is impeccable, and her emotional connection to the lyrics is palpable.
• “A Nightinggale Sang in Berkeley Square”: A highlight of the album, this track showcases Krall’s ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace. The arrangement is lush and romantic, perfectly complementing the song’s nostalgic lyrics.
• “L-O-V-E”: A more upbeat and playful number, Krall injects this Nat King Cole classic with her own unique personality. The band swings effortlessly, and Krall’s vocals are full of joy and energy.
• “Night and Day”: This Cole Porter standard is given a fresh and modern interpretation, with Krall’s piano playing taking center stage. The arrangement is sophisticated and understated, allowing the song’s timeless melody to shine.
• “I’m Confessin’ (That I Love You)”: A bluesy and soulful rendition of this classic, showcasing Krall’s versatility as a vocalist and pianist. The band grooves effortlessly, and Krall’s vocals are filled with passion and conviction.
• “Moonglow”: A haunting and atmospheric rendition of this classic ballad, perfectly capturing the song’s mood of longing and romance. Krall’s vocals are ethereal and haunting, and the arrangement is beautifully understated.
• “Blue Skies”: A hopeful and optimistic rendition of this Irving Berlin classic, Krall’s vocals are bright and cheerful, and the arrangement is light and airy.
• “Dream”: A dreamy and romantic rendition of this Johnny Mercer classic, Krall’s vocals are soft and intimate, and the arrangement is lush and romantic.
• “I Wished on the Moon”: A whimsical and charming rendition of this Dorothy Parker classic, Krall’s vocals are playful and endearing, and the arrangement is light and airy.
• “More Than You Know”: A deeply emotional and heartfelt rendition of this Vincent Youmans classic, Krall’s vocals are filled with vulnerability and passion, and the arrangement is beautifully understated.

The Musicians Behind the Magic

While Diana Krall is undoubtedly the star of ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘, the album’s success is also due to the exceptional musicians who contribute their talents. The core band includes:

• Christian McBride (Bass): McBride’s virtuosic bass playing provides a solid foundation for the entire album, adding depth and richness to every track.
• John Clayton (Bass): Clayton’s bass playing is equally impressive, adding a different texture and feel to several tracks.
• Jeff Hamilton (Drums): Hamilton’s subtle and nuanced drumming provides the perfect rhythmic accompaniment to Krall’s vocals and piano playing.
• Anthony Wilson (Guitar): Wilson’s elegant guitar playing adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to the album’s overall sound.

Why ‘Turn Up the Quiet’ Resonates

‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ is more than just a collection of well-known songs; it’s an album that resonates on a deeper emotional level. Krall’s interpretations are not mere recreations; they are deeply personal and heartfelt expressions of the human experience. The album’s focus on subtlety and nuance allows the listener to connect with the music on a more intimate level, creating a truly immersive and rewarding experience. The production quality is immaculate, allowing every instrument and vocal nuance to shine. This CD is a must-have for any serious jazz fan, and a perfect introduction to Diana Krall’s incredible talent.

The Enduring Appeal of Diana Krall

Diana Krall has established herself as one of the leading jazz vocalists of our time, and ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ is a prime example of her artistry. Her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, combined with her impeccable musicianship, has made her a beloved figure in the world of jazz. This album is a testament to her enduring appeal and a reminder of the power of music to heal, inspire, and uplift.

Critical Reception and Awards

‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ garnered widespread critical acclaim upon its release. Critics praised Krall’s vocals, piano playing, and the album’s overall production quality. The album was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, further solidifying its place as a modern classic. [See also: Diana Krall Discography] and [See also: Grammy Nominations 2018]

Where to Buy and Listen to ‘Turn Up the Quiet’

The ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ CD is available for purchase at most major music retailers, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. It is also available for streaming on all major music streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. Whether you prefer the tactile experience of owning a physical CD or the convenience of streaming, there are plenty of ways to experience the magic of ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘.

Conclusion: A Timeless Masterpiece

Diana Krall’s ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ CD is a timeless masterpiece that will continue to delight and inspire listeners for generations to come. Its exquisite musicianship, heartfelt interpretations, and impeccable production quality make it a must-have for any serious music lover. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Diana Krall or a newcomer to her music, ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ is an album that you will treasure for years to come. The Diana Krall ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ CD is readily available for purchase. Don’t miss the opportunity to add this gem to your collection. Listen to Diana Krall ‘Turn Up the Quiet‘ today!