Abbey Lincoln's Affair, A Story of a Girl in Love

AMG Review of Abbey Lincoln's Affair, A Story of a Girl in Love

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

This CD reissues the music from Abbey Lincoln's first LP along with two slightly earlier numbers originally available as a single. Lincoln was at the time making the transition from a potential sex symbol and lounge singer to becoming a dramatic jazz interpreter. Her voice was recognizable even at this early stage but some of the ballads are more lightweight than the ones she would be performing in the near future. Backed by anonymous orchestras arraged by Benny Carter, Jack Montrose and Marty Paich, Abbey Lincoln's straightforward delivery was already impressive and pleasing.