Long overdue 3 CD box retrospective of celebrated Serbian Jazz singer who was neglected for decades.
Nada Knežević belongs to post WW2 generation of singers influenced with Jazz - her earliest recordings are period pieces, firmly stuck in late 1950s/early 1960s sound of sentimental ballads but eventually later she started to sound more confident and even commanding. Gifted with strong alto voice, Knežević obviously worshipped Ella Fitzgerald and modeled herself on her idol - older generation of Serbians still swear on Knežević but I hear note-by-note Fitzgerald ("Smooth Sailing") so I am not completely convinced. Yes, she could scat obviously and at times even sounded like potential gospel singer, though point has to be made that covering american singers note-by-note doesn't mean one is particularly original. Her discography was unfortunately very spotty and occasional commercial compromise spoils the picture, its hard to take her seriously when she sings "Davy Crocket" or "Lara's theme".
Knežević's career unfortunately dwindled sometime in 1970s when interested in Jazz music waned - with exception of guest appearances, she was all but invisible from than on. Which is pity because she actually got better with time as her live performances witness (compiled here) - Knežević did usual "american songbook" repertoire but truly shines on explosive version of Chick Corea's "Spain" and it makes me wonder what could she offer had she had a chance to record at all. The good thing is that this compilation lovingly offers tribute to her art while she's still around to appreciate it.
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