One of several CDs that reissue singer
Carmen McRae's early Decca recordings, this release draws its material from the 1955 small group album
By Special Request and a 1959 record with the
Ernie Wilkins Orchestra (Something to Swing About).
McRae excels in both settings. While tenor saxophonist
Zoot Sims, trumpeter Richard Williams and pianist
Dick Katz get some solo space on the latter album, the former one showcases
McRae either with
Dick Katz's quartet, accordion player
Mat Mathews' quintet (with flutist
Herbie Mann) or (on "Something to Live For") with its composer
Billy Strayhorn on piano. During an emotional rendition of "Supper Time,"
McRae herself plays piano. Throughout the 20 selections, the singer is heard in her early prime, hitting high notes that she would not even think of attempting in her later years. Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow