Mad About Madeline!

by Scott YanowMadeline Eastman's second recording would be recommended if only for the "backup" group (altoist Phil Woods, pianist Cedar Walton, bassist Tony Dumas, and Vince Lateano plus a guest vocal by Mark Murphy on Bob Dorough's "You're the Dangerous Type"), but even if the musicians were anonymous this set would be worth checking out. Madeline Eastman is a creative singer with an appealing voice. Most of the tunes are vocal standards, but they also include such offbeat choices as "Freedom Jazz Dance," "Four," and "Never Never Land." Other highlights include fresh renditions of "Cheek to Cheek," "Turn out the Stars," and "All of You."