I have just finished the new book on Diana Krall, The Language of Love, by Jamie Reid. I would say that it is the "look of the
language", to again paraphrase a song title, that grabbed me. Reid, it seems, is a well known poet and it shows in the precise
and dexterous use of language he employs to tell the story of a Nanaimo girl's ascendency to the top ranks of jazz, and even
pop stardom.
Reid tells the story from the point of view of someone apparently very conversant with the west coast jazz scene in Canada
over many years. He details all the singer's background in Nanaimo against the tapestry of the local scene.
The book also makes one aware of the supposrt she received from jazz legends like Ray Brown during her rise to prominence.
It makes a fascinating story the way Reid tells it and also makes one realize that it was talent and not just packaging and
promotion which have made her so famous.
I think that just about anyone would appreciate the qualities of Mr. Reid's book, even non-jazz fans, as it does convey the
warmth and support that Krall received early on from her family and the community and makes us realize that Canadian talent is
second to none in the world.
A truly refreshing approach to biography, best read while one of Diana CDs plays gently in the background.