In 1956 a nightclub boss told the Juilliard pianist he'd hire her if she'd also sing. Smart idea. As this must-buy-now four-disc career set proves, Simone's reedy, dramatic alto made her a peerless interpreter of Gershwin, Brel, Dylan, the Bee Gees and herself (the scathing Mississippi Goddam). Warning: Contents are emotionally draining. Also life-enhancing.
Grade: A