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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZBREACH, Joyce(b 27 Feb. '44, Alameda CA) Cabaret singer, her vocal style a little reminiscent of Anita O'Day and Chris Connor, in the tradition of Blossom Dearie and Mabel Mercer: dedicated to preserving the great American popular song. Majored in journalism at U of West Virginia, moved to Pittsburgh and was a local cabaret star there during the years when most people thought cabaret had disappeared completely. Gained more recognition when she was signed by Audiophile label '85; made her NYC debut '92 at the cabaret convention and at Danny's Skylight Room with Richard Rodney Bennett. She moved to Manhattan '96. The legendary Barbara Lea said, 'She's someone quite special. Beautiful voice, superb pitch, great taste. Just a first-rate singer in every way.' Albums: Songbird '85 with the Jerry Melagi Trio, guests Danny Conn on trumpet and Joe Negri on guitar, incl. Negri's 'Music Is My Best Friend'; Confessions '90 with Loonis McGlohon, songs from '28--90; Lovers After All '93, a collaboration with Bennett; This Moment '96 with pianist/composer William Roy. |