Why isn’t Janice Borla better known? On this gem of a record, she transfers all kinds of jazz instrumentals into vocal pieces, including such unlikely devices as John Abercrombie’s “Arcade” and Bill Evans’ “Five” (for which she wrote the lyrics) and “Very Early.” Her improvising is adventurous, yet she also pays respect to each song’s original mood and theme. Borla has a beautiful voice and one that is flexible enough to deal with such songs as “Café,” Wayne Shorter’s “Beauty and the Beast,” and Abbey Lincoln’s “Bird Alone.” Fareed Haque’s guitar adds some fire and the feel of rock to five numbers and there are also spots for trumpeter Art Davis and vibraphonist Brad Stirtz. A memorable effort. – Scott Yanow
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