There were so few male jazz singers active at the beginning of the 21st century that it was a good time to appreciate the singing of veteran
Ernie Andrews. For this set, he is joined by a four-piece rhythm section that includes pianist
Aaron Graves and guitarist
Dom Minasi, plus either
Teddy Edwards or
Houston Person on tenor.
Andrews is quite expressive and bluesy throughout the set, and in particularly fine form on
Edwards' "Don't Touch Me," "Everybody's Somebody's Fool," "That's What I Thought You Said" (which is humorous, if repetitive), and "A Cottage for Sale," even if the words for "Girl Talk" are long overdue to be retired. Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow