Lillian Boutte - But Beautiful (1996)

Lillian Boutte is a versatile singer who can swing. This particular CD is really more of a middle-of-the-road soulful pop recording than a jazz date (no real improvising takes place) but Boutte's appealing voice and easygoing style sound fine throughout the diverse program, even if the background musicians are given little to do. Highlights include "Be Glad You Ain't Dead" (which has a guest vocal from the date's producer, Dr. John), "You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To," "When Sunny Gets Blue" and "Tomorrow Night."