What's Your Story Review by
Ken Dryden
Roberta Donnay has been on the music scene for some time, but this session marks a return to her first love, jazz. Produced by Orrin Keepnews and surrounded by a strong rhythm section anchored by pianist Eric Reed, Donnay's somewhat edgy soprano has a pop sensibility at times (especially in Al Jarreau's "Put It Where You Want It") but she's in total control in this diverse CD. Highlights include a pair of songs by Bob Dorough ("Small Day Tomorrow" and "Devil May Care"), a sassy take of Mary Lou Williams' "What's Your Story, Morning Glory?" (with a blues-drenched solo by Reed) and a strutting interpretation of Mose Allison's "If You Live." Tenor saxophonist Dave Ellis is added on several tracks, contributing a heartfelt solo in the unjust obscurity "Drinkin' Again." Roberta Donnay and jazz fans alike will benefit from her jazz comeback.
