Nnenna Freelon - Shaking Free (1996) [2005 SACD]

For this excellent effort, Nnenna Freelon solidifies her position as one of the better female jazz singers of the 1990s. Her appealing voice and versatility are well displayed throughout a set that includes a 5/4 version of “Out of This World,” the folk song “Black Is the Color of My True Love’s Hair,” “Birk’s Works,” “I Thought About You,” “Nature Boy,” and three originals. Freelon is ably assisted by her regular rhythm section of the period (pianist Bill Anschell, bassist John Brown, and drummer Woody Williams), and there are worthwhile guest spots for guitarist Scott Sawyer, Rickey Woodard on tenor and soprano, and Alex Acuna on congas.

Tracks:

01. Out Of This World 06:02
02. Black Is The Color Of My True Love's Hair 06:03
03. I Live To Love You 04:19
04. Shaking Free 05:18
05. Stories We Hold 04:54
06. Birk's Works 04:31
07. My Shining Hour 04:38
08. Visions 04:04
09. I Thought About You 05:04
10. What Am I Here For ? 06:37
11. Nature Boy 04:16
12. Blue Daughter 02:21

Personnel:

Nnenna Freelon - vocals
Bill Anschell - piano
Jonh Brown - bass
Woody Williams - drums
with special guests:
Alex Acuna - congas
Scott Sawyer - guitar
Rickey Woodward - saxophone