Betty Carter's second Verve album solidified her credentials as one of jazz's top singers. Her trio of the period (pianist
Marc Cary, bassist
Tarus Mateen and drummer
Gregory Hutchinson) are joined by trumpeter
Freddie Hubbard (shortly before his decline) and tenor saxophonist
Craig Handy on four of the seven selections while a medley of "Stardust" and "Memories of You" finds
Carter accompanied by pianist
Geri Allen.Other highlights include "I Love Music," "What's the Use of Wond'rin'" and "Droppin' Things." With the exception of the
Geri Allen medley, this consistently stimulating music was recorded live at the Bottom Line in New York. ~ Scott Yanow