Stevie Holland - Restless Willow (2004)

Stevie Holland has a beautiful and flexible voice. Her CD constantly varies the personnel (sometimes featuring pianist George Small and at other times guitarist Sean Harkness) and covers a few different styles. The music includes standards at a variety of tempos, some songs that sound close to show tunes, and heartfelt ballads. There are also guest appearances (one apiece) by Rubén Flores (who sings a duet with Holland on "One Touch"), flutist Joe Mennonna, and tenor saxophonist David "Fathead" Newman (who swings on "Zoot Walks In"). Among the most memorable selections are a happy interpretation of "It Might As Well Be Spring," an uptempo "Summertime," and a wonderful version of "Stardust" in which Holland's voice is backed by just Harkness' guitar. All in all, this is an impressive effort.~Restless Willow Review by Scott Yanow