Customer Reviews

Alive

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Although this CD doesn't seem to be discussed as frequently by critics as some of Carmen's other performances, over time it has come to be one of my favorite McRae CD's. Here she's singing in that live, small-group setting (including Norman Simmons on piano) where she excelled, at New York's Village Gate in the 1960s. The first half of the CD previously appeared as "Woman Talk," and it is certainly good though not exceptional for McRae. But it's the second half of the CD in particular that I've really come to appreciate. At the risk of overstating things, I'll say that this performance of "Love For Sale" is the best one I've ever heard from any artist, and it showcases Carmen's voice at its best as do her renditions of "Too Close For Comfort" and "Travelin' Light." But Carmen's ability to communicate emotion with her attention to lyrics is also at work here. Put on the little known gems "You'd Better Go Now" or "Look At That Face" at just the right moment and Carmen will move you to tears. While this CD may not be the best introduction to Carmen McRae for the uninitiated, all of those McRae touches that fans love so well are on full display here.

This album was my first Mcrae album and is still one of my favorites. She sounds wonderful and plays with the soul jazz phase of the early 60's. There is a trio but there are all sorts of flutes and percussion that she adds. Carmen has a good time performing this set you can hear the fun the she is having and the audience.

The 21 tracks take you on a journey of the many styles that Carmen McRae masters. Unique tracks include Feeling Good and Miss brown to you. The difference between each track ensures that the full album is interesting listening.