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ILONA KNOPFLER
Live The Life (Mack Avenue Records)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich


Fluent in both English and French, Ilona Knopfler has produced a highly satisfying recording. Born in Paris, Knopfler moved to the United States when she turned eighteen. She currently lives in both countries. Live The Life reflects this expanded world view, with vocals in both French and English; in some cases Knopfler even alternates between the two in the same song. As Knopfler explains: "Just like sometimes I dream in English and sometimes in French, whatever language I sing in doesn't change the story. The important thing is that the lyrics speak to me, so that when I sing them, I mean it and feel it. It's the harmonious blend of music and lyrics that makes a song understandable in any language." Given the quality of her voice, the effect is mesmerizing.

Jay Ashby, who produced the CD and contributes several enticing arrangements, has done a great job surrounding Knopfler with sympathetic, skilled musicians. In addition, Ashby has encouraged the vocalist to reach inside and give the music her all, and Knopfler has responded with a heartfelt effort. She has a knack for emotionally inhabiting her material, especially ballads, which she caresses with tender affection. Witness "Ask Me Now," "This Is Always," or "Les Moulins De Mon Coues," know in English as "The Windmills of Your Mind." The title of this CD is from Tommy Dorsey's tune "I'm Going To Live The Life I Sing About." The lyrics inspire Knopfler to contribute a passionately beautiful interpretation, alternating between her two chosen languages. Check out the smokin' solo Antonio Hart plays about half through the song.

Knopfler, a vocalist who refuses to be typecast, follows her heart and sings songs that touch her. This listener is grateful that Knopfler is clear about and continues to follow her muse. There is much growth between her last CD, Some Kind Of Wonderful, and Live The Life. Ilona Knopfler is an artist who is successfully making the difficult transition from potential to reality. As I enjoy this classy current release by Knopfler, I look forward to her next release. If form holds true, it should be some kind of wonderful.

© 2005 - Ron Saranich