A Woman Alone With The Blues by Maria Muldaur

06 Feb

Written by Morrice Blackwell
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Diva Maria Muldaur (AKA Maria d'Amato) has created an entirely new niche for herself by singing the blues and doing tribute albums. She recorded a children’s album ("Animal Crackers in My Soup: The Songs of Shirley Temple") in 2002 and a tribute to blues women of the ‘20s in 2001 (Richland Woman Blues). To say that she is multifaceted is an understatement.

"A Woman Alone with the Blues" is a wonderful compilation of Peggy Lee’s songs. Lee was one of the true woman stars of her time and her songs are timeless gems that are always a pleasure to hear.

The bouncy bluesy big band sound was a perfect backdrop for Lee’s sexy smooth delivery. Muldaur illustrates this beautifully, most notably on "A Woman Alone with the Blues," "Some Cats Know" and "Winter Weather." All of the other tracks are exceptional as well. Ms. Lee’s catalog, revered by her peers and critics alike, has had a strong impact on countless artists over the years. The liner notes by Muldaur pay respect to the artistry of Lee in an endearing and loving way. I do not think Telarc could have chosen a better individual to record this CD. I think that she makes a few good points regarding Lee’s work. Not only did she perform for over five decades, she was also one of the first woman singer-songwriters. It is a shame that her death went without any fanfare or celebration of her life.

This was a fitting tribute and a fine selection of songs for Ms. Muldaur to perform. It was easy to fall under the spell of the legend and music of Peggy Lee. Music that can create such vision and realism in my thought process while listening has my vote.

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Maria Muldaur
CD Title: A Woman Alone With The Blues
Genre: Blues
Year Released: 2003
Record Label: Telarc
Tracks: Fever I Dont Know Enough About You Moments Like This Winter Weather Some Cats Know Everything Is Moving Too Fast Waitin' for the Train to Come In The Freedom Train Black Coffee A Woman Alone With the Blues For Every Man There's a Woman I'm Gonna Go Fishin''
Musicians: David Torkanowsky (Piano), Maria Muldaur (Vocals), Danny Caron (Guitar), Dan Hicks (Vocals), Jeff Lewis (Trumpet), Kevin Porter (Trombone, Bass Trombone), Jim Rothermel (Clarinet, Flute, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Horn Arrangements, Adaptation), Arthur Latin (Drums) Neal Caine (Bass), Gerry Grosz (Vibraphone);
Label Website: http://www.telarc.com
Rating: Five Stars