Dinah Washington was known as the essential rhythm & blues singer of her time, but only
Sarah Vaughan eclipsed her in terms of jazz ballad artistry. This collection of torch songs, taken from her recordings on the Mercury and EmArcy labels, is evidence enough of her status as "the Queen." Arrangements by
Quincy Jones,
Ernie Wilkins, and
Fred Norman in big band or small group sessions are quite attractive and complement her distinctive voice. Six are with string arrangements and two with vocal group backup (
the Dells,) but every cut is a quintessential. Great soloists like
Clifford Brown,
Al Cohn,
Kai Winding,
Cannonball Adderley, and
Clark Terry are included in this set, the best songs being "Since I Fell for You," "Willow Weep for Me," "Stardust," "More Than You Know," "Unforgettable," and "Goodbye." ~ Michael G. Nastos