(Mack Avenue)

WomanChild, the debut recording singer Cécile McLorin Salvant, is one of those comet-in-the-sky moments, that rare privilege to witness something spectacular that makes you say “Wow!”. Salvant’s voice is a blend of voices in our collective memories, but to hear them as one and in a person with the grace, poise and power to deliver them in all their glorious colors in her early twenties, is something indeed. The Miami-born singer seems more kindred spirit with her vocal inspirations than imitator. Her repertoire is a throwback thrown forward by her deep understanding and appreciation for the genre. Producer Al Pryor provides Salvant and this outstanding recording tremendous direction befitting the talents of this amazing. The musicianship is tremendous, as delivered by Aaron Diehl on piano, Rodney Whitaker on bass, Herlin Riley on drums and James Chirillo on guitar. Salvant also plays piano on one tune and sings another in French. This is an incredible production by one of the truly amazing musical revelations of today.