This session comes from close to the end of the line (1959) in the erstwhile swinging company of Barney Kessel on guitar, Ben Webster on tenor, and naysayers will be quick to point out that Lady Day wasn't in peak form here. But Billie Holiday with some of the platinum chipped off the pipes is still way better than a buncha finger-snappin' wannabes anyday. Her interpretations of the title cut, "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," and "Darn That Dream" hold you in the palm of her hand with their gentle swing and the band support here is never less than stellar. This Mobile Fidelity reissue (also available as an audiophile vinyl pressing) features in-the-control-room sound that makes this session sound even cozier. The Lady sings and swings.
You can have your Nina's, Sarah's, and even your Ella's - I'll take Billie all the way...It's midafternoon on Christmas Eve on this side of the world - The Turkey is smoking on the grill, the wine is mulling, and Billie is on the stereo...I think I've bottled happiness!Merry Christmas! (In case you hadn't noticed, I LOVE this time of year...)Did everyone contribute their "Orgasm for Peace"?
You can have your Nina's, Sarah's, and even your Ella's - I'll take Billie all the way...It's midafternoon on Christmas Eve on this side of the world - The Turkey is smoking on the grill, the wine is mulling, and Billie is on the stereo...I think I've bottled happiness!Merry Christmas! (In case you hadn't noticed, I LOVE this time of year...)Did everyone contribute their "Orgasm for Peace"?