Holly Cole – Temptation [Stereo] (Analogue Productions Edition)

(AAA) — Lacquers cut from the original analog master tapes by Doug Sax at The Mastering Lab.

One of the best-recorded, best-sounding female jazz vocal performances!

Mastered from the original master tapes by Doug Sax at the Mastering Lab, assisted by Gavin Lurssen

Plating and 200-gram pressing by Quality Record Pressings

Old-style tip-on jacket by Stoughton Printing

"Not the first time a jazz singer has focused on a single composer — even Keely Smith did an all-Beatles LP, while Ella made an entire series of songbooks — but a double LP that's predominantly made up of Tom Waits material? You're forgiven if this seems like a Rickie Lee Jones album in disguise, rather than a sincere tribute. That, though, would be too glib because this 1995 release is entrancing and atmospheric. The arrangements offer a variety of experiences from Cole's trio in lean, unplugged form, to other tracks augmented by electricity, brass or strings. The transfer is superb, and Acoustic Sounds has expanded the original set with three bonus tracks." — Sound Quality: 90% — Ken Kessler, Hi Fi News, December 2019

Over the past decade, new talents such as Cassandra Wilson, Patricia Barber and Holly Cole have redefined the world of female jazz vocals. Cole's Temptation, a 1995 Blue Note release, is her musical tribute to the writings of Tom Waits. Besides being a superb audiophile recording (perfect in every production detail, from the rendering of Cole's amazing voice to the incredibly natural sound captured by producer Craig Street's team), this album has garnered kudos for her interpretation of Waits' unique compositions.

Now hear how our Analogue Productions' 200-gram LP reissue makes this standout album even stronger! Doug Sax at the Mastering Lab, assisted by Gavin Lurssen remastered the 33 1/3 recording that gives Cole's vocals richer detail and greater body. Premium pressing by Quality Record Pressings provides flawless reproduction against a super-silent background for pure listening enjoyment. Lastly, top it off with a Stoughton Printing old-style tip-on jacket and this disc is a sure winner. A great addition to your jazz collection.

Standout tracks include a catchy version of "Jersey Girl," which made it onto a number of radio playlists, and a rendition of "The Briar and the Rose," augmented by the Canadian Brass. Also included are "Take Me Home," "Train Song," "Temptation," "Falling Down," "Invitation to the Blues," "Frank's Theme," "Little Boy Blue," "I Don't Wanna Grow Up," "Tango 'til They're Sore," "The Heart of Saturday Night," "Soldier's Things," "I Want You" and "Good Old World."

(Above description from AcousticSounds.com)