Cassandra Wilson: Traveling Miles

Wilson’s career began with influences from her father’s record collection and early studies of the piano and guitar. In the early 1980s she increased the size of her loyal audience as a member of Steve Coleman’s M-Base collective before issuing her first recording, Point Of View in 1985. Wilson’s performances have always included a natural charm that stems from her vocal delivery, and is most certainly complemented by the use of acoustic guitars, dobros, acoustic bass, and strong ties to the blues. Several pages of additional background information and audio samples from Living Miles may be found at http://www.bluenote.com/cassandrawilson/ .

Olu Dara lends a Miles Davis muted horn presence on both "VooDoo" tracks. Wilson’s voice assumes the role of Davis’ trumpet throughout the session, interpreting the lyrics, gently scat-singing specific sections, and adding lively vocalese solos elsewhere. Stefon Harris and Regina Carter grace "Seven Steps to Heaven" with enthusiastic solo work and tasteful accompaniment. With Wilson and her rhythm section, the vibraphonist and violinist make themselves at home and infuse considerable spirit. On "Resurrection Blues" the natural timbre of Cecilia Smith’s marimba blends in unison with the leader’s voice while Marvin Sewell’s electric guitar serves to contrast and fill. Metheny’s fingerstyle classical guitar stands out prominently on "Blue in Green" while Sewell’s bouzouki serves to drive "Piper" as a more forceful stringed partner. Whether Cassandra Wilson is accompanied by her own guitar or by any number of talented artists, she’s likely to produce an album worth your attention. Highly Recommended.