Dakota

A large improvement over her previous set, this outing by veteran singer Dakota Staton finds her in excellent form. The repertoire is mostly comprised of veteran standards, highlighted by "Isn't This a Lovely Day," "Cold Cold Feeling," "The Masquerade Is Over" and a medley of "I'll Close My Eyes" and "Close Your Eyes." Staton uses her vibrato more sparingly than on her previous (and weaker) Muse release Darling Please Save Your Love for Me, and there is much more variety in these arrangements. Assisted by either Bross Townsend or Norman Simons on piano and a fine rhythm section, Staton is also joined on various tracks by Rob Paparozzi's harmonica, saxophonist Peter Loeb and guitarist George Naha. Recommended. ~ AllMusic Review by Scott Yanow

Dakota Staton has long been a fine jazz singer who is at her best on blues and standards. Usually her ballad renditions make for a fine contrast, but this out-of-print LP is a bit of a disappointment. Staton is backed by strings, flutes, French horns, a harp and a rhythm section arranged by Benny Carter. Unfortunately, the strings often weigh down the music, and the worst aspects of Staton's singing are often emphasized with exaggerated emotions, a touch too much vibrato and a sameness to many of her interpretations. The dozen songs mostly stick to older standards and are not completely without merit Dakota Staton's fans will want it anyway, but she is represented by much more exciting performances elsewhere.

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