June Christy - Day Dreams (1995)

This CD includes all of singer June Christy's Capitol recordings from 1947-50 outside of the Stan Kenton Orchestra, including four previously unreleased titles. Christy, a subtle and cheerful improviser, was always willing to take chances, and her repertoire here ranges from novelties and jazz standards to a version of "Everything Happens to Me" on which she is backed by a typically radical arrangement by Bob Graettinger. In addition to the performances with orchestras led by Frank DeVol, Bob Cooper, Pete Rugolo and Shorty Rogers (highlighted by "Get Happy"), there are also two songs from her 1955 duet date with pianist Stan Kenton that were released on this CD for the first time. June Christy is in superior form throughout this highly enjoyable and somewhat historical set. ~Scott Yanow