20

Performer: Harry Connick, Jr.
Artist: Dr. John; Carmen McRae
Engineer: Tim Geelan
Producer: Kevin Blancq
Distributor: Sony Music Distribution (

Notes: Personnel: Harry Connick, Jr. (vocals, piano); Dr. John (vocals, organ); Carmen McRae (vocals); Robert Leslie Hurst III (bass). Recorded at Rca Studios, New York, New York in May & June 1988. Harry Connick, Jr.'s sophomore album was the first to feature the New Orleans-born pianist on vocals, and it proved to be an auspicious choice. A year after 20 was released, Connick's warm voice would appear on the soundtrack to the movie WHEN HARRY MET SALLY and make him an overnight superstar. The seeds of that stardom are sown on 20, however, with the young musician planting his feet firmly in traditional territory with both his material (he covers George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, and Irving Berlin) and vocal approach (nods to Frank Sinatra). The settings are mostly spare and unaccompanied, letting Connick's vocals and piano playing shine. The album's two duets, the first with fellow Big Easy native Dr. John on "Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans" and the second with Carmen McRae on "Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone," are particular highlights. Though 20 is sometimes overshadowed by Connick's better-selling, post-breakthrough records, it remains one of his most consistent and appealing. On a set of mostly unaccompanied piano solos and vocals, Harry Connick, Jr., shows a great deal of potential. His renditions of 11 standards are highlighted by collaborations with singer-organist Dr. John on "Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans" and especially a memorable vocal duet with Carmen McRae on "Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone." In addition, bassist Bob Hurst helps out on "Do Nothin' Till You Hear from Me." Years later, this still remains one of Harry Connick, Jr.'s finest recordings. ~ Scott Yanow

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