The collection features landmark early recordings that established her legacy, including her poignant interpretation of "A Foggy Day"

Carmen McRae stands as one of the most influential and foundational vocalists in jazz history, renowned alongside figures like Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sarah Vaughan. Celebrated for her masterfully behind-the-beat phrasing, sharp lyrical irony, and unparalleled storytelling ability, McRae was a true musician's singer who also possessed formidable skills as a jazz pianist. Her sophisticated, smoky contralto voice and distinct, worldly delivery allowed her to dissect a lyric with dramatic precision and emotional depth. Over a career that spanned five decades, McRae's singular vocal artistry earned her continuous critical acclaim, multiple Grammy nominations, and a permanent place in the pantheon of great American jazz icons. This essential 16-track vinyl compilation chronicles the definitive, foundational years of Carmen McRae's illustrious solo career. Spanning a pivotal five-year window from 1953 to 1957, this meticulously curated anthology beautifully captures her evolution from a prominent big-band singer and vibrant New York club performer into a major, chart-recognized solo jazz force. The collection features landmark early recordings that established her legacy, including her poignant interpretation of 'A Foggy Day' from 1953 and the high-energy title cut 'Get Set' from 1955. It showcases her peerless command of the Great American Songbook, bringing together stunning, sophisticated performances of classic standards such as 'Midnight Sun,' 'Yesterdays,' and the hauntingly complex 'Lush Life'. Complete with definitive renditions of 'My Funny Valentine' and 'Yardbird Suite,' this beautifully pressed retrospective offers an indispensable historical overview of an artist at the absolute peak of her early creative powers. It serves as a monumental addition for historical jazz preservationists, vinyl enthusiasts, and vocal jazz aficionados alike.

Track Listing

• A Foggy Day
• If I'm Lucky
• Get Set
• Midnight Sun
• Yesterdays
• Speak Low (When You Speak, Love)
• I'll Remember April
• I'm Putting All My Eggs In One Basket
• Yardbird Suite
• You Took Advantage Of Me
• Lush Life
• I Can't Escape From You
• My Funny Valentine
• Nice Work If You Can Get It
• East of the Sun (And West of the Moon)
• Exactly Like You

Additional Details

Label: Acrobat

Genre: Jazz

Language: English

Run Time: 37 mins

Region: 0

Release Date: 10/09/26

UPC: 824046172121