Holly Cole's debut recording is a delight. Although she infuses a variety of standards with sensuality (including "If I Were a Bell," "On the Street Where You Live," "Honeysuckle Rose" and "I'll Be Seeing You"), she is also clearly laughing at her image at the same time. Joined by pianist
Aaron Davis and bassist
David Piltch with guest appearances by violinist
Johnny Frigo (on two songs) and bass clarinetist
Robert Stevenson (for one),
Cole's interpretations of the mostly veteran material are both haunting and ironic, making this a memorable and surprisingly original outing. ~ Scott Yanow