This strikingly beautiful artist has managed to pull in quite a few new converts with 2001’s The Look of Love. This sultry collection of standards is a bit more mainstream than her previous work, but it’s still jazzy and masterfully performed. For a relatively young artist, Krall has a wonderful appreciation for the great ones who have gone before (she even has a whole album of songs made famous by the Nat King Cole Trio). Her jazz roots, therefore, prevent The Look of Love from being the next forgettable pop CD, though these types of song collections are making a big comeback with Rod Stewart and others.

If I smoked, I could probably light up after listening to this album. It is that beautiful. Somewhere back in your memory bank, you’ve heard S’Wonderful, The Night We Called It a Day, I Remember You, and Love Letters.You’ve never heard them so good until now. Slightly newer songs like Cry Me a River and The Look of Love are also offered up in grand style. The whole collection is sublime and I guarantee that you’ll want to hear/buy Live in Paris next. It’s a splendid keeper, too.

NOTE: Diana’s main squeeze, Elvis Costello (think Julia Roberts & Lyle Lovett), also has a new CD (North) that is making waves in the jazz community. I haven’t heard it, but may give it a critique in the days ahead. GD