CARMEN McRAE – Book Of Ballads (1959-2008) RM | SHM-CD | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The Book of Ballads in question is the Great American Songbook, and Carmen McRae breathes new life into some of its most dog-eared pages on this wonderful session that heralded the close of her Kapp Records tenure. McRae tackles material like "When I Fall in Love," "Isn't It Romantic?" and "How Long Has This Been Going On?" with uncommon care and intelligence, summoning rich new meaning from the familiar lyrics. In her hands, the songs pulse with energy and life. Arranger Frank Hunter and a supporting trio led by pianist Don Abney also merit commendation for nuanced, evocative backings that afford McRae the necessary space to do her thing. Jason Ankeny
Tracklist:
1 By Myself  3:12
Howard Dietz / Arthur Schwartz
2 The Thrill is Gone 3:52
Buddy DeSylva / Ray Henderson
3 How Long Has This Been Going On 4:06
George Gershwin / Ira Gershwin
4 Do You Know Why?  2:52
Johnny Burke / James Van Heusen
5 My Romance 3:53

Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers

6 Isn't It Romantic 3:00
Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
7 If Love Is Good To Me 3:29
Redd Evans / Fred Spielman
8 When I Fall In Love 3:47
Edward Heyman / Victor Young
9 Please Be Kind 3:14
Sammy Cahn / Saul Chaplin
10 He Was Too Good To Me 2:41
Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
11 Angel Eyes 2:41
Earl K. Brent / Matt Dennis
12 Something I Dreamed Last Night 3:59
Sammy Fain / Herbert Magidson
Credits:
Carmen McRae - Vocals with
Frank Hunter Orchestra