May 2000

Etta Jones
All the Way
HighNote Records

By Nancy Ann Lee

An instantly recognizable stylist, Etta Jones sings a heartfelt 10-tune Sammy Cahn tribute, lending drawling, note-bending phrasing to chestnuts such as "It's Magic," "I Should Care," "I'll Walk Alone", "All the Way" and more. First-rate support from Jones' long-time partner, tenor saxist Houston Person, from a fine rhythm section, from guitarist Russell Malone, and guest spots from trombonist Steve Turre and violinist Tom Aalfs add up to Jones' classiest, recent-best album.