Saturday, August 4, 2018

Christine Hitt - Magical Kite (2018)


Vocalist Christine Hitt's "MAGICAL KITE" produced/arranged by Geoffrey Keezer featuring John Beasley, Jeff Hamilton and more

"She has an unpretentious approach while sharing her great musical sensibilities with others. She's a real joy to work with."
Jeff Hamilton, legendary jazz drummer


MAGICAL KITE, the newest CD from vocalist and multi-instrumentalist CHRISTINE HITT, comprises a range of styles, from standards to gospel to bebop. The selection of songs reflects Hitt’s eclectic tastes and influences, but it’s her innate musicality that elevates and personalizes these songs.  The CD was produced and arranged by GEOFFREY KEEZER, the prolific, Grammy nominated pianist, composer, and arranger, and features JOHN BEASLEY on piano. She’s also accompanied by some of the top jazz musicians in Southern California. MAGICAL KITE is the long-awaited follow-up to YOU’D BE SO NICE TOCOME HOME TO, her 1999 MaxJazz debut that featured Hitt on vocals and piano, along with several well-known jazz artists.

Hitt’s warm voice can express a rich tapestry of tones, and she sings ballads and swing tunes with equal facility. Keezer’s arrangements truly set this recording apart, but Hitt also wanted the experience of  Keezer as an accompanist; she closes the CD with a gentle but emotional duet with him on “Around The World.” With Hitt’s sophisticated lyric interpretations along with her musical chops, MAGICAL KITE is a showcase from an experienced artist with great depth and maturity.


John Beasley, piano, Fender Rhodes, melodica
Geoffrey Keezer, piano (9) 
Jeff Hamilton, drums (1,5,7,8)
Gene Coye, drums (2,3,4,6)
Leo Amuedo, guitar
Bob Sheppard, alto sax  
Walter Rodriguez, percussion
Eric Hitt, bass
Erin Bode, vocals (4,6)
Cory Hitt, vocals (2,3,4)

Arranged and produced by Geoffrey Keezer
Executive producer Christine Hitt

1. Wade in the Water  4:40
2. Magical Kite  4:00
3. Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing  5:39
4. Shower the People  5:09
5. Yardbird Suite  4:15
6. Believe in Me  4:26
7. Shine on Harvest Moon  6:23
8. Smile  4:17
9. Around the World  3:23