Betty Carter - Finally

The title of this CD reissue probably refers to the fact that this was singer Betty Carter's first released recording in five years; a second CD (Round Midnight) also originated from the same concert. The mature Betty Carter is heard for the first time on this record which finds her taking wild chances on a set mostly dominated by standards. With the alert accompaniment of pianist Norman Simmons, bassist Lisle Atkinson and drummer Al Harewood, Carter sings some ballads very slow while other tunes are taken at rapid tempoes; the music is consistently unpredictable and often fascinating. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide