This Time It's Love

On his third album, Chicago singer Kurt Elling showcases his spectacular vocal abilities on a variety of standards. From the opening lines of "My Foolish Heart" to the final strains of "Every Time We Say Goodbye," Elling displays exquisite control. He also interprets the lesser-known works of Freddie Hubbard and McCoy Tyner. As a vocalist, he scats fearlessly, revealing an affinity for improvisers like John Coltrane. Accompanied by pianist Laurence Hobgood, saxophonist Eddie Johnson, bassist Rob Amster, and drummer Michael Raynor, Elling's style is buoyant and passionately expressive. A wholly romantic endeavor, This Time It's Love shows Kurt Elling in a particularly mellow context. An evocative crooner exploring the subtle nuances of jazz vocalese, Kurt Elling is finally hitting his stride. --Mitch Myers