AMG Review of Best of Eliane Elias, Vol. 1: Originals

David R. Adler
All Music Guide

This best-of collection tellingly starts off with four consecutive tracks from Elias' 1991 album A Long Story. The disc doesn't get out from under the wordless vocals and synth pads until track seven, "Fantasia (To Amanda)," a teasingly short duet with bassist Eddie Gomez. Then, from tracks eight through 12 you're on more solid ground, as Elias shows her mettle in more organic settings. With players like Marc Johnson, Peter Erskine, Jack DeJohnette, and Christian McBride present, the musicianship is excellent.