Helen was one of the finest and most successful female singers of the late thirties and early forties, in an era dominated by big bands who created some great music. Perhaps the most famous bandleader in those days was Glenn Miller, but singers were not particularly important to him (and that explains why most of the music he is remembered for is instrumental), so the truly great singers, of whom Helen was certainly one, looked to other bands for employment. So, Helen worked for Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman and Harry James. Her greatest successes came with Harry James, but the music here covers her time with Artie Shaw. One of two collections covering the recordings that Helen made with Artie Shaw and his orchestra, this includes the American number one hits They say and Thanks for everything, together with the other hits You grow sweeter as the years go by, I poured my heart into a song and Many dreams ago. In keeping with the music of the time, the musicians get plenty of chance to demonstrate their skills via long instrumental breaks, but Helen's lovely, clear voice is the most important instrument of all. For Helen's other recordings with Artie Shaw, including I have eyes, Deep in a dream, Between a kiss and a sigh, Deep purple, Comes love, Melancholy mood, Day in day out and All the things you are, see the companion volume Sweet and simple. Together, these CD's include everything that Helen and Artie recorded together. This is an outstanding collection of music by Helen, possibly the finest female band singer of them all. |
