Sarah Vaughan recorded in a variety of settings while with Mercury and EmArcy in the 1950s, but this particular matchup with the Count Basie Orchestra (pianist
Ronnell Bright substitutes for
Count, thus the title) is pure jazz. During the classic encounter,
Vaughan fits in comfortably with the band, whether singing lyrics (such as "Darn That Dream," "Cheek to Cheek," or "Doodlin'") or scatting sensuously on "No Count Blues." The wit and constant swing (in addition to the spontaneous creativity), makes this one of the best of all
Sarah Vaughan recordings. Highly recommended. ~ Scott Yanow