On Walkin’ By The River, Marty Elkins takes the top line as the music of New Orleans and The American South comes alive.
A fixture on the New York jazz scene since the 1980s, Elkins sang at Jimmy Ryan’s and Eddie Condon’s establishment in their last days, worked with Max Kaminsky, was part of a few vocal groups, recorded with Dave McKenna, and has been a solo artist in a countless number of clubs.
Her subtle yet direct singing approach combines with a fetching voice to create a memorable swing style.
Elkins’ latest recording teams her with trumpeter Jon-Erik Kellso, guitarist Howard Alden, pianist Steve Ash, bassist Lee Hudson, drummer Tayro Okamoto and occasionally organist Joel Diamond on 13 swinging numbers.
Nearly all of the songs are from the swing era or earlier and she bring a freshness to these well-loved standards.
Elkins, who sometimes hints a little at Helen Humes and early Lena Horne, has a joyful sound and a real feel for these vintage songs.
Kellso is a major asset throughout, whether playing introductions, interacting with the singer, or taking concise solos.
Alden also has plenty of brief spots in the limelight, pianist Ash is often reminiscent of Count Basie and Diamond’s organ is mostly quiet yet uplifts the music.
Highlights of the easily enjoyable set include such numbers as If I Could Be With You, an up-tempo Runnin’ Wild, the shouting Garbage Can Blues, and When My Sugar Walks Down The Street, although in reality all 13 performances are excellent.
Anyone who is a fan of first-class swing singing will certainly enjoy Elkins’ latest recording - previous celebrated releases include Fat Daddy (2018), In Another Life (2009) and Fuse Blues (2000).
Listening to these stirring songs, sung by this incredible singer, is an absolute delight.

TRACKS:

If I Could Be With You
Runnin’ Wild
Is You Is Or Is You Ain’t My Baby
Garbage Can Blues
When My Sugar Walks Down The Street
Don’t Let the Sun Catch You Cryin’
There’ll Be Some Changes Made
Down To Steamboat Tennessee
Comes Love
Ill Wind
I’ll Never Be The Same
Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea
Walkin’ By The River