Hope Clayton - Introducing Hope Clayton (1986)

An irresistible invitation to the fresh and vibrant sounds and interpretations of a masterful vocalist. Genres are mixed, artfully displaying Hope Clayton's singular spark of creativity and complimented by equally astute bass and piano. Her voice is like a clear stream while full of subtlety and depth. I love the moments of exquisitely exposed bass-only accompaniment in "That Old Devil Moon". Her flirtatious and flouncy "I Won't Dance". The originality of Billy Joel's "New York State of Mind", then her gut-wrenching delivery of" 'Round Midnight", which plummets us darkly down to the place where despair and loss reside. Full of nuance, range, and love of the craft, this CD satisfies in every way.