Left Coast Life

Album Review

On this provocative collection, Kitty Margolis celebrates the idealism and irony, humor and poignancy of Left Coast Life and brings a distinctly 21st century sensibility to her eclectic repertoire of modern jazz and pop standards and originals. From the bossa-flavored original "It's You," which Margolis co-wrote with guitarist Joyce Cooling, to heart-wrenching ballads such as "Spring Will Be a Little Late This Year," to her swinging interpretation of "I Want to Be Happy," Margolis' artistic growth shines brightly on these 11 songs. Songs by Tom Waits, Pink Floyd, and Cy Coleman help to round out the song selection and are particularly memorable, but all of the songs stay in one's mind afterward, showing how unique a performer Kitty Margolis has always been. Her delivery and phrasing is theatrical, sly, and sardonic, but superb on the social commentary "You Just Might Get It" and the bluesy bop arrangement of "Money," both sure indications that her vocal range is solid and can flow seamlessly into an assortment of tempos. Margolis gives listeners a nonstop program of sweet, soulful, and swinging music that is consistent with her previous efforts, Straight up With a Twist and Evolution.