Over the years, Jazz singer, Cassandra Wilson has recorded many tunes.  On some of her albums, she has contributed interpretations of tunes written and popularized by others.  With her unique vocal style, a low to the ground voice as recognizable as Sade and Roberta Flack, she applies a smooth treatment to Pop/Rock songs that are well known classics.

Culled from her earlier works dating back to 1993’s Blue Light ‘Til Dawn, from whence her cover of Van Morrison’s “Tupelo Honey” is drawn, this collection of Wilson-sung Pop/Rock hits is a nice selection of sultry magic. 

There are some absolute gems here.  Her rendition of “The Weight” by The Band is nothing short of a jog through heaven as she effortlessly reworks that which can not be reworked.  She provides a slow dance through the classic that is endearing and requires future revisits.  Later in this collection, her amazing version of “Lay Lady Lay,” the Dylan classic, is as if Dylan had her in mind when he wrote the tune.

She totally romanticizes and captures the essence of the Monkees tune, “Last Train to Clarksville.”  There are eight more covers here including songs originally by U2, Cyndi Lauper, Sting, Neil Young, Glen Campbell, and others.  All carry the stamp of her unique delivery.

More than this, the musicianship heard on these songs is top notch.  They are expertly covered and make the songs even more electric than Cassandra could have done all by herself.  This collection can raise the hairs on your arms.  And they should.  If they don’t, there is no hope for you.