"Sure Thing" from Eva Vazzana (Single Track/IVAVI Music)

By Nick Mondello, jazz critic

When attempting to download the track, “Sure Thing” written and produced by L.A.’s noted composer/vocalist/producer, Eva Vazzana, the podcast “Our Thing – The Sammy ‘The Bull’ Gravano Podcast” accidentally and unfortunately downloaded for my “enjoyment.” It was my keying error on that. Now this exceptionally well-performed and produced track and its A-List crew are in no way connected to that “made man.” However, what was made here is a terrific chart-worthy tune, arrangement, and recording of impeccable caliber and taste.

Eva Vazzana’s tune, “Sure Thing” is a slick throwback with a contagious 80s semi-funk groove and Al Jarreau vibe. The cut features a hip Maurizio Metalli arrangement, an ace vocal by Chrissi Poland, a crab’s-rear-tight three horn team, a deep-pocketed rhythm section, topped off by a killer saxophone solo and fills from Eric Marienthal.

Poland, a super-versatile act worthy of even wider recognition (she’s performed with Sting, et al, and even won Amateur Night at the Apollo!) delivers Vazzana’s hook-ish tune with great flair, elegance, and soul. Hers is an energetic voice and she wafts through the fine lyrics superbly. Rome, Italy-based arranger and co-producer,

Mauricio Metalli has framed all this with an outstanding and very hip arrangement that sparkles with every phrase. Composer and producer Vazzana does double duty with Metalli on background vocals.

While the individuals on this track recorded remotely – Rome, Dallas, Los Angeles and Nashville - you’d never know or sense that, given Metalli’s masterful production touch. The sonic balance here is studio exceptional, including the fact that the three killer hons are not buried in the mix, as was the case on so many hits of this genre. Lead and background vocals are pristine. The result of all this is a production that complements the composition, the vocal, and all goings on.

“Sure Thing” certainly lives up to its title and is an all-around winner. I’d wager that even the aforementioned Bad Boy Sammy would thoroughly enjoy it.