An excellent CD that features some of
Betty Carter's earliest work – sides recorded for the album Meet
Betty Carter &
Ray Bryant, plus other rare ones that were later collected on the Social Call album! The set features some sublime tunes arranged by Gigi Gryce – with a floating jazzy style that works perfectly with
Betty's incredible voice – plus others with backings by
Ray Bryant's combo, and a few more that feature
Ray's group playing without
Betty's vocals.
Betty's voice is already fantastic – even at this early point in her career – with an amazing range of expression, and a jazz-based approach that's different from most of her generation. There's a total of 19 tracks in all – including one previously unissued number – and titles include "
Bryant's Folly", "Social Call", "Thou Swell", "Frenesi", "Run Away", "Tell Him I Said Hello", "Can't We Be Friends", "Sneaking Around", and "Let's Fall In Love".
(1996 pressing.)