"Vocalist Barbara Knight graced the "Uniquely Cleveland" program delivered by the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra last month with panache, pomp and circumstance. The jazz singer regularly delivers for the CJO (and in her own shows) with a warm, silky and inviting vocal delivery that has earned high praise by critics and fans alike. Her 14-tune set of "all-time favorites" called Angel Eyes might be a couple years old now, but it may have the most clarity of purpose for any local jazz vocal release to date.

Accompanied by an all-star cast that includes Russell Schmidt (piano), Jack Schantz (flugelhorn), Dave Morgan (bass), Jim Rupp (drums), and guests Howie Smith (saxophones) and Ron Busch (vibraphone), Knight's loving, mid-range voice radiates passion and exudes the glow usually reserved for the orange embers of a late autumn fire. From the uptempo rendition of "You Go To My Head" (which spotlights solo pizzaz by Schantz) to unique renditions of "Old Devil Moon," "Spring Is Here" and the Johnny Mercer/ Hoagy Carmichael dream "Skylark," there's something to fit every mood. Knight's disc has it all: tight arrangements, a brilliant jazz songbook set list, session musician pedigree and a sweet, alluring (if not caramely) voice that begs for repeated spins.

Knight is a dream come true for jazz vocal aficionados and accessible enough to please first-timers as well. Either way, she'll win you over in no time."

Peter Chakerian, Cool Cleveland Managing Editor, peterATcoolcleveland.com

"Having not heard Barbara Knight before, I was very surprised by her creativity, maturity, warm voice and excellent improvising skills.  Based in Cleveland where she sings with the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra and is often known as a big band singer, on Angel Eyes she is joined by her quintet. Along the way Ms. Knight takes a duet with each of her sidemen including drummer Jim Rupp ("Secret Love"), pianist Russell Schmidt ("A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square"), bassist Dave Morgan ("Lullaby Of Birdland") and flugelhornist Jack Schantz ("Skylark"). Vibraphonist Ron Busch and Howie Smith (on alto and soprano) also make appearances.  Dave Morgan and the singer are responsible for the colorful arrangements.  Such songs as "You Go To My Head," "You Don't Know What Love Is" and "Old Devil Moon" are given fresh treatments full of subtle surprises, making this CD a perfect introduction to Barbara Knight, a singer who takes chances and has the technique and abilities to constantly succeed.  The CD is available from www.barbaraknight.net.

Scott Yanow, jazz critic, Los Angeles Jazz Scene magazine

"Vocalist Barbara Knight delivers a diverse 14-tune set of all-time favorites, accompanied by Russell Schmidt (piano), Dave Morgan (bass), Jim Rupp (drums), Jack Schantz (flugelhorn) and guests Howie Smith (saxophones on two tracks) and Ron Busch (vibraphone on one track). These are all accomplished veteran Ohio musicians, familiar with working with Knight as members of the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra and other groups. Knight's warm, mid-range voice caresses each song with meaning. At any tempo, she is comfortable with the lyrics and injects fresh air into each song, most arranged by Morgan. Among the best, an up tempo version of "You Go To My Head" also spotlights a fine solo by Schantz. "You Don't Know What Love Is" is nicely refashioned by Knight and crew. The title tune, arranged by Knight, is delivered with smoky feeling heightened by funky bass lines from Morgan and Schantz's flugelhorn musings. Smith adds punch to "What Is This Thing Called Love?", given a funky beat by Knight's arrangement. The fare includes unique takes on "Spring Is Here," "Skylark" (performed in duet with Schantz) "Lullaby of Birdland," "Old Devil Moon," and more. Schmidt, Director of Jazz Activities at Bowling Green State University, provides lyrical accompaniment throughout. Rupp has backed an array of stars, including singer Diane Schuur, and provides delicate traps work here. Since 1993, Schantz has served as musical director of the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra. A good choice of material, unique arrangements, solid musicianship and Knight's lovely voice make this CD one you'll want to replay." For more info on Knight, check out www.barbaraknight.net.

Nancy Ann Lee, jazz critic, Jazz and Blues Report

"Barbara Knight's CD, "Angel Eyes," is a honey. Not only does the lissome singer refresh chestnuts such as "I'm Beginning To See the Light," "You Don't Know What Love Is" and "A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square," she endows co-producer Dave Morgan's "Choices" with her own sensitive lyrics and gives plenty of breathing room to her illustrious friends. These include the great saxophonist Howie Smith, the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra musical director (and musician extraordinaire) Jack Schantz on flugelhorn, the protean Morgan on bass, and vibraharpist Ron Busch. Knight's quintet regulars - a fleet, stylishly punchy bunch - are pianist Russell Schmidt, drummer Jim Rupp, Morgan and Schantz. They back her with verve and unexpected daring on the title track, a sultry "Garota de Ipanema" and two tunes in which Knight's coolly defiant approach rings particularly true: "You Don't Know What Love Is" and "What Is This Thing Called Love?" Knight's voice is measured and understated, but she knows how to make a song burn with a singular, quiet fire."

Carlo Wolff, jazz critic and author of "Cleveland Rock & Roll Memories"