Sugar

by Scott YanowEtta Jones' long string of recordings during the final part of her career for Muse and High Note are some of the most rewarding of her life. Her voice was naturally not as youthful as earlier and her range gradually shrunk, but she was very soulful and had a way of wailing out notes that made each song her own. On Sugar, the first four numbers have her joined by a rhythm section that is hurt slightly by Horace Ott's dated-sounding keyboards. The other four numbers have more suitable accompaniment by pianist Stan Hope. However tenor saxophonist Houston Person is a consistent force throughout and Etta Jones is heard in prime form on both dates. Notable highlights include vocal duets with Earl Coleman ("This Is Always") and Della Griffin ("Side by Side").