Jazz vocalist Madeline Eastman’s debut is quite impressive. With strong assistance from trumpeter Tom Harrell, pianist Mike Wofford (Paul Potyen fills in on one song), bassist Rufus Reid and drummer Vince Lateano, Eastman performs a wide ranging set. Highlights include such unlikely singing material as “Wild Is the Wind,” and a minor-toned “You Are My Sunshine” (inspired by Mose Allison’s version), Joe Henderson’s “Inner Urge,” and Bobby Hutcherson’s “Little B’s Poem” along with “Little Boat,” “Nobody Else But Me” and “I Only Have Eyes for You.” Lots of chances are taken on this enjoyable CD and Madeline Eastman shows that she has a flexible enough voice to handle all of the creative challenges. Highly recommended. – Scott Yanow
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