A mixed bag from a great singer.
01/21/2003
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Frances Wayne was a terrific, seasoned big band singer, famous for her mega-hit with Woody Herman, "Happiness is a Thing Called Joe." She married one of Herman's main men, arranger Neal Hefti, and apparently opted for a quiet life. Her album with Hefti, "A Warm Sound," is really excellent. "Songs for My Man," also arranged by Hefti, is less good, but still worthy. Excellent renditions of standards, but some lapses, like the very coarse, almost lampoonish version of "Do It Again" and the terrible, commercial-sounding bonus tracks. Discover husky-voice Frances on "A Warm Sound," which may be all you need for your collection."