Amazon Review
Amazon.com
November 2007
by Grady Harp
CD Review: Amazon.com
Double Barreled Talent!, November 21, 2007
Michael Camacho in his new CD JUST FOR YOU SHOWS that not only is he a fine jazz vocalist, he is also a composer of considerable talent. His voice is subtle, not ranging a huge vocal span but instead focusing on the ability to communicate not only the text but also the texture of the twelve songs in this collection. His technique is secure and at the same time his vocalizing is pliant enough to incorporate moments of scat singing that truly enhance the lyric.
Camacho, for this listener, is most successful with his ballad singing. There just aren't many male vocalists who can bring Sammy Chan's 'I Should Care' or Rodgers and Hart's 'Blue Room', and especially the tenderness of everyone's favorite - 'Norwegian Wood' to the peak of expression Camacho manages. His unique rendition of Hoagy Carmichael's 'Skylark' is the price of the CD alone! His own songs are strong compositions, well written and very well sung - especially the title song for the CD - 'Just For You'.
Michael Camacho as backed by the collaborative fine musicians is an important figure in jazz today. This solid collection places him close to the top of the heap! Grady Harp, November 07