Loverly by Cassandra Wilson

Loverly, Cassandra Wilson’s latest release is a treat to the ears. The Mississippi native adds her smoky and special interpretations to a new set of standards. Her voice is distinctive, and her style is classy and intimate, making her -in this listener’s opinion- one of the finest singers in the jazz world today. On Loverly, she has stellar musicians accompanying her: Jason Moran on piano, Lonnie Plaxico on bass, Marvin Sewell on guitar, and Herlin Riley on drums. I’ve been a fan of Ms. Wilson for several years now, and have turned others on to her records. I was lucky enough to see her live last summer in Central Park for free, under the stars, and it was just… Loverly.

She starts things off with the Oscar Hammerstein-penned “Lover Come Back To Me.” Ray Noble’s “The Very Thought of You” is a song we’ve heard many times before, but Ms. Wilson has her way with it and it sounds like a completely different tune, making it a definite high note on this album. Other standout songs on Loverly include “‘Til There Was You,” the bluesy “Dust My Broom,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” “Arere,” and “Caravan.” The song that stands out the most is “St. James Infirmary.”

Cassandra Wilson’s albums get better with each listen, and this one is no different. It’s a solid set full of emotion, masterful technique, and unique interpretation and style. It’s a must-have for fans of jazz, blues, or just good music.