Ann Richards - I'm Shooting High (1958)

Ann Richards, only in her early twenties at the time, had already sung with Charlie Barnet and would always be closely associated with Stan Kenton (whom she married and later divorced). Her life was short, but she did record a few albums as a leader, including this one, her debut. Backed by an unidentified big band conducted by Brian Farnon and arranged by Warren Barker, Richards displays an appealing voice and a swinging style. She was best at this point on upbeat material, so the highlights include "I'm Shooting High," "Poor Little Rich Girl" and "Will You Still Be Mine." ~Scott Yanow