This CD reissues a formerly rare
Irene Kral
album that was originally recorded for the
Ava
label, one of only two records that she recorded during 1960-1973.
Kral
is quite recognizable, although not singing with quite the emotional intensity that she would display during her final three albums (which are all classics). Joined by pianist
Junior Mance
, bassist
Bob Cranshaw
, and drummer
Mickey Roker
(whose name is misspelled
Rocker
),
was already a delightful singer. Best are her versions of
"Better Than Anything,"
"The Meaning of the Blues,"
"It's a Wonderful World,"
"Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out to Dry,"
and
"Nobody Else But Me."
This enjoyable set is available through the
Spanish Fresh Sound
label. ~ Scott Yanow