Jane Monheit • The Merriest

Jane Monheit, who was profiled in our May 2021 issue, has 24 years making a career in jazz. She is the kind of skillful and nuanced vocalist that musicians love to work with. The kind that can make an album of Christmas classics that is as rewarding and moving as your favorite renditions. Monheit has released thirteen albums, including an earlier Holiday album in 2005. Her most recent, released this year is self titled. The Merriest was released in 2022. While she is based in Los Angeles, Monheit tours regularly. After a few California shows early this month she will be at Birdland in New York City for ten appearances between December 10th and 14th. She finishes December with appearances in Philly, D.C., and New Hampshire. I have no particular knowledge that this December tour will include titles from The Merriest, but it wouldn’t surprise me. Her vocals are the most overtly jazz part of this album. She has a fluidity and sense of timing that secures her place among the best vocalists exploring the American Songbook today. In a crowded field, she stands out as a true professional. Everyone has something to say in their interpretations, Monheit knows how to say it, and therein lies the art. Aside from her outstanding performance, the setting is a friendly contemporary jazz sound. The musicians are all excellent. She is joined on one of nine tracks by John Pizzarelli to sing a duet.