Blossom Dearie- "Blossom Dearie"

This week I received one of my favorite records in the mail. It was an album I had been wanting for a while, but until recently, it was very expensive. I am talking about Vinyl Me, Please's release of Blossom Dearie, the 1957 debut album by American jazz vocalist and pianist, Blossom Dearie (yes, that's her real name).

I am drawn to this album for many reasons:

1. All-star musicians. If Blossom's soothing voice isn't enough, Herb Ellis (guitar), Ray Brown (bass), and Jo Jones (drums) back up Dearie on piano. Herb and Ray both played extensively with Oscar Peterson, my all-time favorite jazz artist. This is a no brainer for me.

2. The laid back and calming experience this album gives is remarkable. Like previously mentioned, Blossom Dearie has a very distinct voice. It is angelic, soft, and hypnotizing. Pair that with her gentle piano playing, and it is a force to be reckoned with.

3. There are a few tracks sung in French.

4. This album pairs extremely well with a nice cup of coffee.

I have played this album multiple times since I got it. I usually play it in the morning before I start my day, and ideally with a cup of coffee. It provides the perfect environment for a rainy day spent inside.

I encourage anyone even remotely interested to check this album out, I promise, no matter how out of your comfort zone it is, that you will enjoy this record.