PATRICIA BARBER: MODERN COOL

Performer: Patricia Barber, vocals; Dave Douglas, trumpet; John McLean, guitar; Michael Arnopol, bass; Marc Walker, drums and percussion
Composer: Patricia Barber
Number of discs: 2
Barcode: 0856276002916
Label: Impex Records
Format: LP
Genre: Jazz
Year: 2025

The extraordinary Modern Cool by Patricia Barber

180-gram double LP

Pressed at RTI using Neotech’s VR900-D2 PVC compound

New remaster by Bernie Grundman from the original tapes restored by David Glasser

Luxurious gatefold jacket with a 16-page booklet including full lyrics and previously unpublished photographs

“From a sonic perspective, Patricia Barber’s Modern Cool is one of the finest recordings ever made by a jazz singer with a small acoustic ensemble.” — Five Stars, Downbeat

“This magnificent album features a series of highly compelling tracks that examine the way we live and think, going beyond conventional romantic themes. This is the kind of music we should never tire of seeking out. The 21st century has begun. We can no longer afford to be left behind.” — New York Times

“A simply unmissable album.” — Stereophile

Modern Cool marked the beginning of Patricia Barber’s long-lasting mainstream success, thanks in part to her iconic rendition of the Doors’ classic “Light My Fire.” While touring this album, Barber performed most of its songs during a four-night engagement at The Jazz Standard in New York City. It was there that she caught the attention of Bruce Lundvall from Blue Note Records—a pivotal encounter that led to a series of acclaimed albums released on both Premonition and Blue Note, along with triumphant international tours and unanimous critical acclaim that endures to this day.

In a short time, Modern Cool became one of the most coveted audiophile classics worldwide, both for Jim Anderson’s unmatched skill in crafting an intricately detailed soundstage and for Patricia Barber’s exceptional gift for writing and interpreting songs of stunning beauty.

In this new Impex reissue of Barber’s masterpiece, the 180-gram vinyl originally pressed with VR900-D2 has been newly remastered by Bernie Grundman, with the clear intent of faithfully capturing even the smallest dynamic nuances and enhancing the tonal accuracy of the original recording—without introducing harshness or sibilance. This outstanding remaster is accompanied by a lavish visual presentation that refreshes the elegant original cover design and includes an exclusive booklet with full lyrics and a set of rare photographs by Barber’s longtime collaborator, Valerie Booth.

Even if you already own a copy of Modern Cool, this new vinyl edition is a must-have, offering the opportunity to hear sonic details previously unimaginable.

Patricia Barber, vocals; Dave Douglas, trumpet; John McLean, guitar; Michael Arnopol, bass; Marc Walker, drums and percussion

Side A
Touch of Trash
Winter
Let It Rain

Side B
Company
Silent Partner
Light My Fire

Side C
You & the Night & the Music
Love, Put on Your Faces
She’s A Lady

Side D
Constantinople
Postmodern Blues
Let It Rain – Vamp