Jazz vocalist Gemma Sherry’s third full-length album, Let’s Get Serious, is a gorgeous tribute to the joyful music of the 1940s and 50s. Affirming that the world needs happy music, the album’s title is actually a tongue-in-cheek reference to the playful, upbeat, cheeky songs she so tastefully sings. Based in Philadelphia, Sherry has a knack for finding just the right material to put a smile on your face and some pep in your step. Along with a stellar ensemble, Sherry’s subtle sensuality and lightly swinging style make for a compelling combination.

Let’s Get Serious has an enchanting mix of less oft-heard songs such as “Blossom’s Blues,” “Try Your Wings,” and “The Doodlin’ Song,” as well as classics like “Give Me the Simple Life” and “Straighten Up and Fly Right.” Fresh, inventive arrangements of “Why Don’t You Do Right?” and “Whatever Lola Wants” turn them into impressionistic musical statements. Sherry’s messages of hope and optimism are compelling. In an evocative arrangement of “Try You Wings,” she quietly sings with a light, dreamy voice much like Blossom Dearie originally recorded it. The swinging grooves of “The Alley Cat Song” and “The Gentleman is a Dope” make for pleasant listening as Gemma Sherry vocalizes with emotion and sensitivity. I also especially enjoyed her sultry delivery of Carole King’s “Go Away Little Boy.” 

Gemma Sherry’s first-rate accompanists include Rick Germanson (piano), Paul Bollenback (guitar), Eric Wheeler (bass), Joseph Doubleday (vibraphone) and George Coleman Jr. (drums). They’re exciting, lyrical musicians who play with purity of tone and elegant taste. Sherry and company give us a gripping performance of happy, melodic mood music from start to finish. (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)