was a virtual unknown outside of Europe before coming to the United States and dazzling both seasoned musicians and critics alike. Under the wing of for several years prior to his death in 2003, the Italian singer with an expressive, clear, and consistently swinging vocal style has seen her reputation spread widely, culminating in this initial American release. Her delightful take on the includes a bit of soft scatting in tandem with 's bass. Her expressive interpretation of finds her scatting to each of the demanding solos from a recorded collaboration by , , and , as well as adding some original to each of the solos. She is just as effective handling ' bittersweet and 's overlooked gem Tenor saxophonist is a special guest on and the swinging on the latter playing in unison with and engaging in a friendly, often hilarious scat duet with her as well. With this first-rate 2006 release, makes a strong case for consideration as one of the most impressive vocalists to arrive on the scene over the previous two decades; her attractive voice, impeccable taste, and skills as an arranger make her impossible to resist. ~ Ken Dryden