Carmen McRae - Here To Stay (1992)

One of several CDs that reissue singer Carmen McRae's early Decca recordings, this release draws its material from the 1955 small group album By Special Request and a 1959 record with the Ernie Wilkins Orchestra (Something to Swing About). McRae excels in both settings. While tenor saxophonist Zoot Sims, trumpeter Richard Williams and pianist Dick Katz get some solo space on the latter album, the former one showcases McRae either with Dick Katz's quartet, accordion player Mat Mathews' quintet (with flutist Herbie Mann) or (on "Something to Live For") with its composer Billy Strayhorn on piano. During an emotional rendition of "Supper Time," McRae herself plays piano. Throughout the 20 selections, the singer is heard in her early prime, hitting high notes that she would not even think of attempting in her later years. Recommended.