Reflections in Blue heralds a significant musical and tonal shift for
Brenda Lee. A mature, potently melancholy collection of classic ballads both past and present, the album proved both a creative success and a commercial pitfall, failing to even chart in the U.S.
Lee's signature energy and enthusiasm are absent here, replaced by a more adult intensity that burrows deep under the listener's skin. Songs like "I Will Wait for You," "Close to You," and "You'll Never Know" capture the singer at her most moving, transcending the pop and country trappings of her biggest hits to evoke the nocturnal poignancy of
Frank Sinatra's landmark sessions with arranger
Nelson Riddle.