So smooth,
So musical,
and a seamless
interpretation
of lyrics.
So smooth,
So musical,
and a seamless
interpretation
of lyrics.
About Joni
A native of Texas, Joni Janak attended Texas Tech University on a Vocal Scholarship. A passion for music began when she was very young. Her innate talent was influenced by her musically oriented family; her grandparents and parents owned, operated and taught in The Amarillo College of Music.
Her earliest influence was Doris Day. Joni soon journeyed into the world of jazz, listening to the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Dakota Staton, Ethel Ennis, Irene Kral, and June Christy.
What the Experts Say...
Let me make a list of Joni's vocal attributes: first of all, there is her vocal sound-a lovely cello-like, middle-range, which she uses effortlessly. So smooth, so musical, and a seamless interpretation of lyrics. You'll never hear her take a breath...Joni is always dead on the note and gives each note its true value.
- Ralph Sharon, pianist/composer, arranger, conductor
With an appealing alto, rock-solid pitch and feel for rhythm, Joni Janak sang Beautiful Friendship with appropriate energy, sustaining her notes nicely.
- Zan Stewart, Los Angeles Times
Joni Janak is one of the best singers I've ever heard. There are very few singers who can interpret a melody and lyrics the way she can.
- Carl Fontana, trombonist
Joni Janak is one of the unsung heroes in jazz. She is a great singer.
- Johnny Mandel, composer/conductor
Joni's version of my song, The Wind, is the best rendition I've ever heard–and there are 32 recordings of it. Her interpretation just kills me: the way she breathes, the way she phrases, she's just absolutely fabulous. She ranks with the very best singers this world has produced. Her pitch is perfect. Her phrasing and intonation are absolutely impeccable.
- Russ Freeman, pianist/composer
Another fine singer deserving of far more attention than has so far been extended, Joni Janak is based in Colorado where she has attracted a faithful and discerning following... have also become aware that hers is a talent of international quality. Astute phrasing and unforced swing make this a very attractive jazz album. (The Wind)
- Bruce Crowther, Jazz Journal, England
The Wind with Carl Fontana
Being raised in Amarillo, Texas, I was fortunate to have very loving and supportive parents, giving me a strong background in music. My brother, Jim, played trombone and Carl Fontana was his idol. I grew up listening to all of Carl's early recordings with Woody Herman and Stan Kenton. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imaging someday I would work and record with the great Carl Fontana.
In January 1991, I met Carl while singing at the El Chapultepec in Denver. In the Spring of 1992, he asked me to come to Las Vegas and work with him at Alexis Park. I cannot describe the thrill of knowing, working, and recording with this gentle giant over the past several years. Carl is the Master of Ease and my total inspiration. When he comped around me, it was heaven. I thank him for all he has given me: confidence, encouragement, support and most of all for giving his time and talent to make this CD possible.
