Judy Argo - True Love Ways (1994)

Backed by an all-star ensemble, Judy Argo delivers a solid program of upbeat and ballad standards promised by the album's title. Even the violins and cellos are among the first-call string players in New York. First class all the way. Taking full advantage of this outstanding talent, Argo shows her chops to the fullest. "All the Things You Are" is an intimate musical conversation between her and the Marvin Stamm trumpet. Toots Thielemans provides a lovely intro and coda for "My Foolish Heart." The late Gerry Mulligan's baritone bounces along on an up-tempo version of the Rodgers & Hart "Everything I've Got Belongs to You" from their Broadway musical Jupiter. Houston Person's blues-drenched tenor waxes melodically on "How Deep Is the Ocean." Strings provide a silky background for "I'll Be There." Grady Tate vocalizes with Judy on a blues-styled "Goody-Goody," with Stamm, Ray Brown, and Houston Person making significant contributions. "Ev'rything I Love" is done with a Latin beat with Joe Beck's guitar leading the way; Mike Renzi and Thielemans also stretch out on this cut. Mike Renzi's piano, one of the more undervalued except among other musicians, provides both dynamic and subtle accompaniment on all cuts. He is also the musical director for the session and did most of the arranging. The remainder of the program is as equally interesting and entertaining. Argo's voice and delivery hints of Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Doris Day. Quite a combination. Nothing works better than a good singer backed by solid musicians. ~Dave Nathan