D+Q=Magic

If it's possible to wear out a CD, I'll find out with this one. I never tire of hearing this music. Two of the tracks -- "They Didn't Believe Me" and "Perdido" have become my Official Favorite vocal performances of those songs.

Quincy Jones's arrangements are loose and jazzy, and show Dinah at her best: a top-notch musician working with other top-notch musicians.

The final seven tracks (which were not included on the original LP) may be too much of a good thing (it's best to skip "I Know" altogether,) but even they have some moments ("Relax, Max" is a hoot.) A must-have CD.

Mizz D--The Truly American Voice of Jazz and Blues

This Dinah Washington recording from 1957, produced by Quincy Jones (who helped Sarah Vaughan with the "Misty" album produced in France in 1958) is everything a Dinah Washington album should be: fiesty, swinging, bloozy, and unique. Dinah Washington (who died much too early--in 1963) is a truly American voice--what does that mean? There are no words to describe it. This is why you must listen. Dinah Washington must be an auditory experience. No words are descriptive enough to capture who she is or what she does. No other voice rings as loudly or as clearly as hers does; no other voice ever will. Her performances here are spectacular and swinging. "Perdido" and "Relax Max" are marvelous. Washington is in control of her music, yet the spirits soar so freely around her--this is what she captures. If you're new to Dinah Washington, then start with this one!

Oh, how she swings!

Dinah Washington has THE voice! She is so cool, and this album swings! Quincy Jones helped to produce this album, and his influence shows. The songs are familiar, but have her style and sass. I love her renditions of "Perdido," and "Makin' Whoopee," and "Relax Max" gets my fingers snapping. This album is perfect for your cozy cocktail and dinner parties; it puts everyone in a good mood. The CD box itself isn't shown here yet, but if it is the same version/release that I have, the production of the case is unique. It's a fold-over package with cool 50's design, and the pictures and liner notes are excellent.