Lee Wiley - West of the Moon (CD)

All Music Guide

Lee Wiley was still in prime form during the 1950s, although she was disappointed that she did not become a major commercial success. On this LP (all but two cuts have since been reissued on CD), Wiley is joined by three different orchestras arranged by Ralph Burns. Her renditions of "You're a Sweetheart," "Who Can I Turn to Now," "Can't Get Out of This Mood," "East of the Sun," and "Moonstruck" are particularly memorable. Despite the passing of time, Wiley's voice was still sensuous and haunting, lightly swinging and full of subtlety. With trumpeter Nick Travis, trombonist Urbie Green, trumpeter Billy Butterfield, trombonist Lou McGarity, and clarinetist Peanuts Hucko helping out with a few short solos, Wiley sounds inspired throughout this memorable set.

- Scott Yanow, All Music Guide