Sunday, September 15, 2013

If Dreams Come True


I've always believed that the genius of Billie Holiday was her ability to turn second-rate material into gold. "If Dreams Come True" is a good example, a lyrically silly love song of the cutesy variety forced down Holiday's throat in her early years. In addition, Teddy Wilson, a genius of swing on the piano, as well as the rest of the band, make things interesting with lovely solos while Holiday coos and caresses us with her sweet and smooth delivery. For instance, listen to the song's long instrumental introduction, featuring Wilson tickling the keys. Or the musically delicious trombone and trumpet. Undoubtedly, any of Holiday's recordings featuring Wilson or Lester Young are guaranteed to be at least decent if not excellent. "In your caress, there's happiness!"

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