The Ritz

The Ritz, when they made their first recording in 1985, were a bop-oriented vocal trio consisting of Daryl Bosteels, Sharon Broadley and Mickey Freeman (backed by a rhythm section which included Bosteels on piano). By 1991, there were four vocalists in the group, including Bosteels, Melissa Hamilton, Val Hawk (doubling on guitar) and Christopher Humphrey. This CD also includes Fred Haas on alto and tenor saxophones, along with plenty of guest spots for flugelhornist Clark Terry. The Ritz had expanded beyond bop and actually at this point sounded at its best on ballads, including a medley of "Blue and Sentimental" and "Mood Indigo," "Come Sunday," "A Beautiful Friendship" and "Lotus Blossom." This CD is easily recommended to listeners who enjoy jazz-influenced vocal groups, of which there have always been very few. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide