On this enjoyable CD,
Judi K. sings 15 standards; all but one ("Crazy") dates from at least as far back as the 1940s. The backup band differs from song to song, with a hot Dixieland group (starring the
Bobby Hackett-inspired cornetist
Connie Jones and trombonist
Jim Beebe) on some selections, octogenarian tenor
Franz Jackson having some strong guest appearances, and the late mandolinist
Jethro Burns (heard in 1984) dueting with the singer on "I Can Dream, Can't I."
Judi K. is at her best on the ballads, displaying a lovely voice, a wide range, and moving expressive powers, particularly on "It's Been a Long, Long Time," "Lover Man," "I Remember You" (which has accompaniment from just guitar and mandolin), and a swinging "I've Got a Feeling I'm Falling." Some of the more uptempo tunes are less consistent ("My Buddy" gets carried away with enthusiasm, and "Alexander's Ragtime Band" is a song that needs a rest), but her fresh new lyrics to "After You've Gone" (changing much of the song to "After I've Gone") easily compensate. In general, this is a rewarding and somewhat nostalgic CD which is executed very well.