Due to his being such a talented altoist, arranger and occasional trumpeter for seven decades, it is often forgotten that
Benny Carter wrote some worthy songs along the way. "When Lights Are Low" and "Blues in My Heart" are standards while "Only Trust Your Heart," "Key Largo" and the novelty hit "Cow-Cow Boogie" are close. For this unusual set, 14 different singers had opportunities to interpret one or two
Carter compositions while joined by a fine quintet consisting of cornetist
Warren Vache, pianist
Chris Neville, bassist
Steve LaSpina, drummer
Sherman Ferguson and
Carter himself (88 at the time!) on alto. The ambitious program includes five
Carter songs that were receiving their world premiere; in addition
Carter also wrote or co-wrote the lyrics to nine of the pieces. The singers all show respect for the melody and words with
Jon Hendricks being playful on "Cow-Cow Boogie,"
Joe Williams quite touching on "I Was Wrong" and a weakened
Peggy Lee making a memorable cameo on "I See You." The vocalists consistently seem quite inspired by the unique project. There are many short
Carter and
Warren Vache solos and, even with the emphasis on ballads, there is more variety than one might expect. The well-conceived tribute (which also has fine appearances by
Dianne Reeves,
Carmen Bradford,
Kenny Rankin,
Marlena Shaw,
Diana Krall,
Billy Stritch,
Shirley Horn,
Bobby Short,
Ruth Brown,
Weslia Whitfield and
Nancy Marano) is easily recommended.