INARA GEORGE WITH VAN DYKE PARKS

An Invitation

2008-08-02

Lowell George's daughter Inara makes the "father-daughter" music she always wanted -- but not with dad (R.I.P.), but with longtime friend of the family (and Little Feat producer) Van Dyke Parks. But this is neither Feat, nor like her other projects; instead, it is an orchestral jazz song cycle that's more like Sinatra's 1955 concept record "In the Wee Small Hours" -- songs intended to be heard together, evoking a mood by listening to the total set. Some stand just fine on their own, such as "Right Or Wrong," "Duet" and "Dirty White." But listening to just one song isn't the aim of this production (and watch out because the segues are tight, on purpose, I'm sure). Interesting -- and challenging -- release. Dad's probably pleased to watch his daughter confound the critics, just as he did. 08/08 MJVD J-Esoteric

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