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Jazz Vocalist Dheepa Chari Earns Raves For Debut EP

Jazz vocalist Dheepa Chari has only released one EP and she already has been compared to soul legend Sade. Such startling praise may seem undeserved for an unknown young talent until her CD, "On 4th Street, " is actually heard. Chari's velvety soft voice expresses an emotional depth that is transcends her youthful appearance. For example, on Chari's version of "My One and Only Love, " her voice soars into the blue skies of romance. Given that she's classically trained, one would expect some emotional reservation in favor of technical precision, but Chari doesn't hold back in expressing love in full-bloom ecstasy.

For Chari, music has been central to her life since childhood. "I can't recall a time when I wasn't in love with music, " she revealed. "I remember feeling inspired listening to classical music records at an early age and was usually the youngest audience member at operas and symphonies." On her renditions of jazz staples like "Angel Eyes" and "Peel Me a Grape, " Chari sings with her defenses down, her vulnerabilities exposed in each note.

Chari credits two of her biggest musical influences in shaping her vocal approach. "There are many, many artists that have inspired me throughout my musical journey, but the two vocalists I listen to the most are Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan, " Chari explained. "I have always been moved by their ability to communicate real, honest emotions in a natural way though their amazing technique and style."

Chari has received critical acclaim for "On 4th Street" but the EP is simply a small first step in her career. A full-length album will be next. "I am planning on putting together a full-length album over the next several months which will include both standards and originals, " Chari said. "I'm hoping to complete it late 2011 or early 2012." - Robert Sutton.



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