Marlene VerPlanck - Marlene VerPlanck Sings Alec Wilder (1986)

Alec Wilder wrote some of the most sophisticated and obscure songs. Best-known is "I'll Be Around" but most of his other compositions have been somewhat forgotten except by top cabaret singers. On this set, Marlene Ver Planck performs 20 of Wilder's best works (including the verses). 13 of the tunes were originally cut in 1986 but, for the CD reissue, seven more were recorded in 1991. Backed by pianist Loonis McGlohon, either Rick Petrone or Doug Burns on bass and Mel Lewis or Bill Stowe on drums (with Billy Ver Planck contributing the arrangements), Marlene Ver Planck sounds in prime form and gives each lyric the proper amount of sincere feeling and sensitivity. A highlight is "The Lady Sings The Blues" which Wilder wrote for Billie Holiday but which had never been previously recorded. ~by Scott Yanow