Deborah Silver Teams Up with Count Basie Orchestra for ‘Basie Rocks’

Singer Deborah Silver has launched her new album, “Basie Rocks,” in collaboration with the renowned Count Basie Orchestra. This project blends classic rock tunes with big band jazz, showcasing Silver’s unique approach to music that prioritizes enjoyment over technical bravado. The album features a mix of well-known tracks, including the only Beatles song included, “A Hard Day’s Night,” which sets the tone for an engaging listening experience.

The album opens with a lively rendition of the Rolling Stones’ “Paint It Black,” enhanced by a Latin beat and the trumpet of Arturo Sandoval. This arrangement exemplifies Silver’s philosophy of creating a vibrant atmosphere, as she, along with producers Steve Jordan and Scotty Barnhart, incorporates a wealth of talent and exuberance throughout the album. Each track is meticulously arranged, with contributions from notable arrangers like John Clayton, Andy Farber, and Barnhart himself.

“Tainted Love,” originally by Gloria Jones, offers a modern twist with a minimalist introduction featuring bass and finger snaps. This arrangement quickly builds in intensity, showcasing the dramatic entry of the full orchestra alongside guest vocalist Kurt Elling. Such collaborations are a hallmark of Silver’s work, as she consistently draws in remarkable artists to elevate her music.

The album also includes a lively take on Elton John’s “Bennie and the Jets.” Here, the arrangement by Barnhart transforms the quirky lyrics into a swinging celebration, emphasizing the fun over the song’s abstract narrative. Silver’s performance, alongside the orchestra, invites listeners to dance rather than ponder the lyrics.

Another standout track is Bob Seger‘s “Old Time Rock and Roll,” which features trombonist Wycliffe Gordon. The arrangement begins with an audio effect mimicking the sound of vintage records, setting a nostalgic tone before the full ensemble joins in. Gordon’s distinctive sound adds a rich layer to this interpretation, exemplifying how Silver skillfully blends different musical elements.

Also notable is “Joy to the World,” featuring Trombone Shorty, which transforms what is typically a collective chant into a dynamic duet. Silver and Shorty’s vocal interplay ends with the signature Basie tag, leaving listeners with a memorable conclusion.

While the album features a variety of styles, including a jazz-infused version of “Fly Like an Eagle” that diverges slightly from the Basie sound, it remains cohesive. The collaboration with Bill Frisell on guitar further enriches the track, showcasing Silver’s ability to merge disparate musical elements seamlessly.

“Basie Rocks” also includes two contributions from Paul McCartney, with “A Hard Day’s Night” and “Band on the Run.” Silver’s ability to hold her own alongside celebrated musicians like Elling, Gordon, and Shorty emphasizes her commanding presence. The album culminates with Joe Walsh’s “Life’s Been Good,” where Silver remains at the forefront, even during a lively exchange with saxophonist Doug Lawrence and trombonist Mark Williams.

Overall, “Basie Rocks” is a testament to Deborah Silver‘s vision of creating music that is not only entertaining but also a celebration of diverse influences. With the Count Basie Orchestra backing her, Silver delivers an album filled with joy, exuberance, and a touch of nostalgia, all while ensuring that the spotlight remains firmly on her dynamic vocals.