Although I am only in my early twenties, Sarah Vaughan was my introduction to jazz almost ten years ago. I own about twenty of her albums and I do believe that "Sarah Sings Soulfully" is an essential recording for any true fan of Sassy's to own. Recorded in 1963, it captured Sassy's glorious voice in top shape. The originality here is that this is not exactly a jazz album; there is bass, trumpet, tenor sax, guitar and drums but the acoustic piano is replaced by an organ played to perfection by Ernie Freeman. The result is absolutely breathtaking. Sassy here not only showcases very precise interpretative skills but also her brilliant musicianship on every track; more importantly, Sarah's impeccable vocal technique never outweighs the language of the soul. See for yourself by listening to "What Kind of A Fool Am I?," "In Love In Vain," Monk's classic tune "'Round Midnight", and one of the most magnificent renditions of "Midnight Sun" I have ever heard. The Jazziest number on this album has to be "Moanin'" as its instrumentation very much recalls the "big-band" style. I guess this record owes its title to the variety of moods that Sarah explores here. She swiftly alternates between melancholy and foolish, exhilirating joy ("Sermonette," "Gravy Waltz") and always, she remains engaging and believable. Another reason to buy this album--especially if you're in need of an intro to Sarah--is that it provides you with an opportunity to really appreciate her legendary, wide range vocal range, from her unmistakable vibrato to her astonishing falsetto. Pay close attention to Sassy's vocal prowesses as she closes "A Taste of Honey" and "In Love In Vain" and you might just understand why many critics thought that many an opera singer envied that voice! Go get this album and recommend it to your friends; it's pure gold from start to finish.
