Vocalist Judi K met Franz when she was just beginning her music career. He offered her advice, guidance and opportunities to perfect her style. Franz, Judi and Jim Beebe worked together steadily for nearly 10 years in the 1980's and Judi was one of the performers on hand to honor Franz during his 95th birthday gala concert in November '07 as well as at his memorial service in May '08. Music critic and jazz historian, Scott Yanow, says of Judi's album released in 1984:
~ On this enjoyable CD, Judi K. sings 15 standards; all but one ("Crazy") dates from at least as far back as the 1940s. The backup band differs from song to song, with a hot Dixieland group (starring the Bobby Hackett-inspired cornetist Connie Jones and trombonist Jim Beebe) on some selections, octogenarian tenor Franz Jackson having some strong guest appearances, and the late mandolinist Jethro Burns (heard in 1984) dueting with the singer on "I Can Dream, Can't I." Judi K. is at her best on the ballads, displaying a lovely voice, a wide range, and moving expressive powers, particularly on "It's Been a Long, Long Time," "Lover Man," "I Remember You" (which has accompaniment from just guitar and mandolin), and a swinging "I've Got a Feeling I'm Falling." Some of the more uptempo tunes are less consistent ("My Buddy" gets carried away with enthusiasm, and "Alexander's Ragtime Band" is a song that needs a rest), but her fresh new lyrics to "After You've Gone" (changing much of the song to "After I've Gone") easily compensate. In general, this is a rewarding and somewhat nostalgic CD which is executed very well. ~
Musicians: Truck Parham (bass); Bob Rummage (drums); Les Muscutt (Banjo); Connie Jones (cornet); Jimmy Johnson (bass); Paul Asaro (piano) Dave Baney (guitar); Greg Sergo (drums); Tom Hope (piano); Jim Beebe (trombone) Charlie Hooks (Clarinet); Franz Jackson (tenor sax); Judi K (vocals)
Cuts Include:
Blue Skies
I've Got a Right to Sing the Blues
Ain't Misbehavin'
Georgia on My Mind
Avalon
It's Been a Long, Long, Time
My Buddy
Alexander's Ragtime Band
Loverman
Since I Fell for You
Crazy
I Remember You
I Can Dream, Can't I?'
I've Got a Feeling I'm Falling
After You've Gone
