Roberta Piket's "Speak, Memory" is a captivating jazz album released on January 1, 2000, under the Fresh Sound Records label. Spanning 53 minutes, this album showcases Piket's exceptional piano skills and her ability to breathe new life into a collection of timeless standards and original compositions.
The album opens with "Too Sensible," setting the tone for a journey through a variety of musical landscapes. Piket's interpretation of "A Time for Love" is particularly noteworthy, as she infuses the piece with a sense of warmth and intimacy. Her rendition of "Gone" is equally impressive, highlighting her technical prowess and emotional depth.
One of the standout tracks is "Up, Up and Away," where Piket's playful and inventive approach to the melody creates a sense of joy and levity. Her version of "Lost in the Stars" is a poignant and introspective piece, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotion through her playing.
"When the Sun Comes Out" is another highlight, with Piket's delicate and nuanced touch bringing out the beauty and subtlety of the composition. The title track, "Speak, Memory," is a masterful display of Piket's improvisational skills, as she weaves a complex and engaging narrative through her playing.
The album also includes a stunning rendition of "The Man That Got Away," where Piket's powerful and expressive playing captures the essence of the song's themes of loss and longing. Throughout the album, Piket's playing is characterized by a sense of elegance, sophistication, and technical virtuosity, making "Speak, Memory" a standout addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.