Early genius from Kurt Elling – one of Blue Note's best vocal signings of the 90s, and a richly talented singer who's still not well understood by many audiences! The set's got Kurt doing a bit of everything he does great – completely transforming old standards like "Nature Boy" and "April In Paris"; coming up with new lyrics for harder jazz numbers, like Jimmy Heath's "Gingerbread Boy" or Donald Byrd's "Tanya Jean"; and working through compelling original material that includes "It's Just A Thing", "Endless", and "The Messenger". CD

A fantastic 70s album from the great Sarah Vaughan – maybe one of her best small combo sessions of the decade – and a set that also makes room for some great instrumental contributions too! As you'd guess from the title, the group features the great Jimmy Rowles on piano – having a bit of time in the limelight at this point in his career, and graced with a relaxedly emotive style that's perfect for the similar qualities in Sarah's voice! Yet it's also the whole package on the set that makes things great – as Rowles group features wonderful work on bass from Monty Budwig, maybe some of his best performances on record – plus drums from Donald Bailey, tenor from Teddy Edwards, and trumpet from Al Aarons. These players never get in the way of Sarah, but do a true job of accompanying the singer, while inspiring her to her best with their own top talents – on titles that include "That Face", "Folks Who Live On The Hill", "A House Is Not A Home", "That Sunday That Summer", and "Morning Star". CD