Carmen McRae – Complete Ralph Burns Sessions

Description

Digitally remastered collection from the Jazz chanteuse. This release combines several outstanding sessions by Carmen McRae, dating between December 1955 and August 1958, under the musical direction of the brilliant arranger and conductor Ralph Burns. Armed with an orchestra boasting a 10-piece string section, Burns’ subtle and evocative charts provide a strong yet delicate support that gracefully enhances the vocalist’s talents without ever overpowering her. The addition of guest soloist tenor saxophonist Ben Webster brought another dimension to the magical quality of these recordings. His breathy and expressive sound proves the perfect counterpoint to McRae’s versatile and passionate vocal style. Phoenix.