Show Business Weekly MELISSA ERRICO "Blue Like That" Manhattan Records MELISSA ERRICO "Blue Like That" Legendary producer Arif Mardin has taken songbird Melissa Errico under his wing to produce her debut recording on Manhattan Records, Blue Like That. It’s as eclectic as it is beautiful, with Errico’s diverse repertoire covering soft pop, jazz and R&B with a sound that can only be described as "fresh contemporary." In fact, it’s the kind of record that Judy Collins might be making if she were just starting out today. Errico, an acclaimed darling of Broadway, burst on the scene while still a freshman at Yale by starring in the first national touring company of Les Miserables. She subsequently went on to star in Anna Karenina, My Fair Lady (the ill-fated revival opposite Richard Chamberlain), High Society, One Touch of Venus (part of the Encores! Series) and, most recently, Sunday in the Park with George at The Kennedy Center’s Sondheim Celebration last summer. Obviously, this CD is a distinct musical departure from her Broadway and songbook territory, but not surprisingly, she makes the transition with ease. Working with L.A.-based jazz pianist Alan Pasqua, Errico seemed determined to create a recording that’s both ‘easy-listening’ as well as artistic and, to that end, she has succeeded. It may be hard to categorize and describe, but who cares? With original material by Phil Galdston, Jeff Franzal and Errico's brother, Mike Errico, as well as heavyweights like Randy Newman, Billy Joel, Rickie Lee Jones and Joni Mitchell, the combination of Errico’s gorgeous soprano voice and terrific songs makes it a listening joy. Let’s hope Blue Like That starts a trend. -- David Hurst Show Business Weekly
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