Julie Wilson Sings the Cy Coleman Songbook

At first glance, it would seem an odd match: the bright and brassy music of Cy Coleman sung by a 75-year-old grande dame of cabaret, Julie Wilson. Indeed, this live 1999 recording from New York's Algonquin Room gets off to a rocky start, when the ultra-familiar "Hey Big Spender" doesn't get its usual oomph from Wilson's singing-speaking style, and even pianist William Roy hits a couple of clams. But Coleman's not all brass, and things pick up as Wilson and Roy (who also sings here) delve into more lyrical numbers and lesser-known songs, though Sweet Charity and Little Me are also well represented. Highlights include "It Amazes Me," "Love Makes Such Fools of Us All/On Second Thought," and a searingly emotional "Would You Believe." Perhaps Wilson's biggest drawback is in comparison with Sara Zahn's outstanding and partially overlapping CD, Witch Craft, devoted to the lyrics of Carolyn Leigh, including many songs she wrote with Coleman. Zahn covers some of the same hits ("Witchcraft," "You Fascinate Me So"), as well as less familiar songs, with a stronger, fresher voice. You can certainly enjoy Wilson, but don't miss Zahn. --David Horiuchi