Originally on Mainstream, this live session features the talented singer Carmen McRae at New York's Village Gate with pianist Norman Simmons, bassist Paul Breslin, drummer Frank Severino, guitarist Joe Puma, flutist Ray Beckenstein and Jose Mangual on bongos. The flute and bongos make the music seem a bit dated, as does the inclusion of some forgettable show tunes from the era (including three songs from The Roar of the Greasepaint — The Smell of the Crowd). McRae is in prime voice and sounds best on some Billie Holiday-associated tunes, but the set is mostly for her fans rather than general collectors. (Info By Scott Yanow)
Recorded live at The Village Gate, New York, in December 1965
01 Sometimes I'm Happy
02 Don't Explain
03 Woman Talk
04 Kick Off Your Shoes
05 The Shadow of Your Smile
06 The Sweetest Sounds
07 Where Would You Be Without Me
08 Feeling Good
09 Run Run Run
10 No More
11 Look at That Face
12 I Wish I Were in Love Again
13 You Better Go Now
14 Love for Sale
15 If I Could Be With You
16 Miss Brown to You
17 Perdido
18 Too Close for Comfort
19 Midnight Sun
20 Trav'lin' Light
21 Love Is Here to Stay
15. If I Could Be With You