The younger sister of the great stride pianist
Ralph Sutton,
Barbara Sutton Curtis is a fine pianist herself. Her style is gentler than her brother's and a bit more melodic, as shown on this set of unaccompanied solos recorded live in 1987 and 1993. The relaxed set features
Curtis playing five two-song medleys and 11 other songs, mostly of swing-era vintage. Highlights include "My Fate Is in Your Hands," "No Moon at All," "Looking at You," the boogie-woogie "Blues on the Downbeat," and a medley of "Emaline" and "He Loves and She Loves." ~ Scott Yanow