Diva Maria Muldaur (AKA Maria d'Amato) has created an entirely new
niche for herself by singing the blues and doing tribute albums. She
recorded a childrens album (Animal Crackers in My Soup: The Songs
of Shirley Temple) in 2002 and a tribute to blues women of the 20s
in 2001 (Richland Woman Blues). To say that she is multifaceted is an understatement.
A Woman Alone with the Blues is a wonderful compilation of Peggy Lees
songs. Lee was one of the true woman stars of her time and her songs
are timeless gems that are always a pleasure to hear.
The bouncy bluesy big band sound was a perfect backdrop for Lees sexy
smooth delivery. Muldaur illustrates this beautifully, most notably
on A Woman Alone with the Blues, Some Cats Know and Winter Weather.
All of the other tracks are exceptional as well. Ms. Lees catalog,
revered by her peers and critics alike, has had a strong impact on
countless artists over the years. The liner notes by Muldaur pay respect
to the artistry of Lee in an endearing and loving way. I do not think
Telarc could have chosen a better individual to record this CD. I
think that she makes a few good points regarding Lees work. Not only
did she perform for over five decades, she was also one of the first
woman singer-songwriters. It is a shame that her death went without
any fanfare or celebration of her life.
This was a fitting tribute and a fine selection of songs for Ms. Muldaur
to perform. It was easy to fall under the spell of the legend and
music of Peggy Lee. Music that can create such vision and realism
in my thought process while listening has my vote.
1. Fever - 5:50
2. I Don't Know Enough About You - 3:49
3. Moments Like This - 4:01
4. Winter Weather - 3:02
5. Some Cats Know - 8:27
6. Everything Is Moving Too Fast - 3:07
7. Waitin' for the Train to Come In - 3:26
8. The Freedom Train - 3:32
9. Black Coffee - 6:28
10. A Woman Alone With the Blues - 3:15
11. For Every Man There's a Woman - 3:42
12. I'm Gonna Go Fishin' - 2:22
The Lineup:
David Torkanowsky - Piano
Maria Muldaur - Vocals
Danny Caron - Guitar
Dan Hicks - Vocals
Jeff Lewis - Trumpet
Kevin Porter - Trombone, Trombone (Bass)
Jim Rothermel - Clarinet, Flute, Sax (Alto), Sax (Tenor), Horn Arrangements, Adaptation
Arthur Latin - Drums
Neal Caine - Bass
Gerry Grosz - Vibraphone
