For my money, there’s no better way to score Valentine’s Day than with jazz standards. Three albums I love all year round are ones I might turn to during a Valentine’s Dinner. The lyrics of standards, the phrasing from the singers and instrumentalists, the sophisticated music…perfect.
Ella Sings Gershwin – Ella Fitzgerald’s duo album with pianist Ellis Larkins finds her at her most intimate in a great selection of Gershwin tunes.
The Melody, At Night, With You – Keith Jarrett’s love letter to his wife was his first foray back into playing after he was sidelined with chronic fatigue syndrome. It’s simple and full of passion.
Both Sides Now – Joni Mitchell’s triptych of a modern love affair includes mostly standards along with two of her songs, accompanied by the London Symphony in arrangements by Vince Mendoza.
Chet Baker Sings – Chet Baker’s singing and piano playing is deceptively simple and so romantic.
What music are you playing for Valentine’s Day?