Cassandra Wilson
Coming Forth By Day
(Legacy Recordings)

Coming Forth By Day is an impressive homage to Billie Holiday from legendary jazz artist Cassandra Wilson. Mostly comprised of songs associated with Holiday, this album is full of sensual tonality and luxurious instrumentation, easily the template of Wilson’s discography and musical gifting. Sweltering and sweaty drips of piano run through “Don’t Explain,” while that elegant tone of Cassandra Wilson’s voice captures such a romantic steam and devotion even in the face of a wayward lover. “You Go to My Head” is an intoxicating affair decorated with an orchestral wonderment, while “All of Me” rolls in like a pleasant, unyielding wave. The somber “Strange Fruit,” and the meaning of the song, electrifies under haunting melodies and a rigid, delightful rage of a full-bodied orchestra, still timely as a protest song. This album celebrates Billie Holiday. Had she been alive today, she would be 100 years of age. Her impression and appreciation has never wavered and this album pays tribute well, while never attempting to duplicate. Produced by Nick Cave’s producer, Nick Launay, other artists on this project include Van Dyke Parks, The Bad Seeds’ Thomas Wydler and Martyn P. Casey, T Bone Burnett and Nick Zinner of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.