Esquizito, Something I Dreamed Last Night (Maison Musique)


Perhaps vocalist/guitarist Esquizito can best be described as a stylist. His eclectic approach to a host of standards is all his own while he dwells in the softer times of the past. His look—the high waisted, often pleated pants, two-toned shoes and dapper hats—like his music speak of a more a romantic, polite era. Then again, with pedal steel guitarist Dave Easley onboard, musical risks and modernization are givens and add another dimension to Esquizito’s interpretations. The album opens on that note with the familiar “When It’s Sleepy Time Down South/Les Armes” gifted with a very unusual, rather haunting intro. The song returns home on the entrance of singer’s rich, Spanish moss-infused vocals. The Panorama Jazz Band, which shares Esquizito’s infatuation with the past, joins him on “A Creole Love Song.” The vocalist moans and scats the melody bringing further drama to the soft sway of the tune. The regular group with saxophonist Khari Allen, bassist Greg Smith and drummer Dylan Hicks takes an excursion into other musical eras with a new arrangement of the Rolling Stones’ hit “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” It’s performed with almost a country twang and softer flavor. Esquizito is, however, more natural in the settings of “These Foolish Things” and “The Shadow of Your Smile.” He has and uses a wide vocal range, but on occasion his efforts result in him sounding a bit affected. That’s not the case on the title cut, “Something I Dreamed Last Night.” Paired with noted pianist Ellis Marsalis, Esquizito brings all of his talents to the performance along with perfect restraint.