Reviewed by Gareth Hills

That Della Reese has led a interesting life, few can deny. Whether appearing as a regular on Touched By An Angel in the '90s, playing B A Baracus' mother in The A-Team or carving out a reputation as an accomplished jazz vocalist, there are few roles in entertainment that the one time gospel singer has not, at some time or another, been able to chalk her name next to. This double album from Jasmine Records shines a light on Della's career in the '50s when she was recording for the Jubilee Record label, and comprises a whopping 52 songs spread out over two live albums 'A Date With Della Reese At Mr Kelly's In Chicago' (1958) and 'The Story Of The Blues' (1959) plus 29 studio tracks originally released as singles. One thing that strikes you almost immediately is the versatility of her voice: whether it's the sultry attitude of "Headin' Home", the intimate, yet assertive "Someone To Watch Over Me", or flexing her dynamic range on "The Birth Of The Blues", Reese can certainly brush shoulders with many of the better known jazz singers. Equally, the musicians backing her are accomplished and playful (check out the smooth electric guitar work on "My Melancholy Baby") and lend several creative touches to the music, as the pianist on "Happiness Is A Thing Called Joe" shows as he deftly slips in a phrase from Jingle Bells into the otherwise downtempo song. There's nothing too original here, and Della Reese sticks mostly to established standards, but she performs them so well, with such warmth and nostalgia, that it's hard not to recommend it. Definitely an album that will please and delight downtempo jazz aficionados everywhere.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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