Straight Ahead

This is one of vocalist Abbey Lincoln's greatest recordings, originally released in 1961. It's a testament to the credibility of her very honest music (and her talents) that Lincoln's sidemen on this date include the immortal tenor saxophonist Coleman Hawkins (who takes a memorable solo on Blue Monk), Eric Dolphy on flute and alto, trumpeter Booker Little (whose melancholy tone is very important in the ensemble), pianist Mal Waldron, and drummer Max Roach. Highpoints include When Malindy Sings, Blue Monk, Billie Holiday's Left Alone, and African Lady.