Barbara Paris: Where Butterflies Play

Denver-based chanteuse Barbara Paris is a wonderfully expressive vocalist. Here, in a variety of sessions with pianists Joe Bonner and Ellyn Rucker, guitarist Mitchell Long and tenor saxman Rich Chiaraluce, Paris waxes eloquent with standard fare such as “How Deep is the Ocean,” “Gentle Rain,” “Star Eyes” and “April in Paris.” The overall atmosphere is one of warmth and intimacy. Especially notable are two originals, a lilting 5/4 line by Bonner called “You Kiss,” and Harold Vick’s evocative “Where Butterflies Play.”

Originally Published April 1, 1997