Lori Andrews - No Strings Attached (1997)

Lori Andrews is one of the world's greatest jazz harpists, which would probably be true even if there were more than half a dozen currently active. This particular CD, though, is a bit of a mixed bag. The dominance of Sean Holt's rather average pop vocals on three selections is unfortunate, for they put the harpist in the role of a mere supporting player, and they take away from the set's jazz content. However, most of the other nine selections are on a much higher level, featuring the harpist with a fine rhythm section and occasionally saxophonist George Shelby and flutist Doug Norwine. Flute great Hubert Laws makes a guest appearance on "Smilin' Again." As for Lori Andrews, whether it be on "The Pluckin' Blues," "Song for My Father," "Alice in Wonderland" or especially Clare Fischer's "Morning," she is in top form, playing her harp with the power of a pianist and the facility of a horn.~© Scott Yanow /TiVo