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"Darcy Cooke, who is based in Washington D.C., is a very appealing and swinging jazz singer. She has a warm and inviting voice, youthful enthusiasm, a mature delivery, and a full understanding of the lyrics that she interprets. Careless Love may be her debut recording as a leader but she already has a fully formed style.
For this project, Darcy Cooke is joined by pianist Wayne Wilentz (who was also producer for the album), bassist David Jernigan, drummer Keith Butler Jr., and on some selections trumpeter Robert Vetter. The set begins with a happy medium-tempo version of “Moonglow” that, in addition to the joyful singing, is notable for Vetter’s trumpet playing which is inspired by that of Harry “Sweets” Edison. “Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man” is given a happier than usual rendition by Ms. Cooke and includes a fine bowed bass solo. Darcy Cooke is saucy on “My Heart Belongs To Daddy,” sounds thoughtful during a mostly out-of-tempo version of Billy Joel’s ballad “And So It Goes,” and swings hard on an uptempo “What Is This Thing Called Love” which includes some fine boppish piano.
After a relaxed version of “I Know You Oh So Well,” Ms. Cooke and Wilentz share the vocal spotlight on “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love” with Wilentz’s comments during the final chorus a bit reminiscent of Fats Waller. The enjoyable album concludes with a vocal-piano duet on “Lies Of Handsome Men” and a bluesy and swinging medley of “Careless Love” and “St. Louis Blues.”
It is easy to say that a performer shows potential on their first recording, but Careless Love finds Darcy Cooke already in her prime, displaying versatility and a beautiful voice. This is a release well worth getting by anyone who enjoys first-class jazz singing."
-Scott Yanow, jazz journalist/historian
ARTIST INFO
Jazz Lover
Darcy Cooke is a classically trained jazz vocalist who has been performing nearly all her life. Her strong, clear voice exudes warmth and a depth of emotion that draws in and thrills her audiences. With an impressive range of styles and a fresh approach to repertoire, she easily moves from sultry ballads and soulful blues to classic jazz standards and high energy Broadway and pop. As a regular in DC area jazz bars, piano lounges, music venues, and private events, she has enjoyed performing at venues such as Mr. Henry's, JoJo's, The Carlyle Club, Margery's, Blues Alley, and more!
With a love of jazz and a background in theater, Darcy is a master of song interpretation and an engaging storyteller who effortlessly guides and charms audiences through an evening of pure entertainment!
Darcy's debut album, "Careless Love", was released in 2022 and is available on all major streaming platforms.
It's a Party!
Darcy Cooke is also part of the band, The Pop Chicks. This band sings the great female pop songs from the 60’s to today! Fronted by 3 powerhouse singers: Linda Andersen, Darcy Cooke, and Kathy Farmer, these women have combined their love of a great party, pop music, and enduring friendship to create The Pop Chicks! This act has brought audiences to their feet! They sing as many of the fun, fab, female pop tunes from the 60's, 70's, 80's (and a bit of now) as they can squeeze into a performance! It's all about group participation: dancing & singing along are a MUST!
