Patricia Barber Verse on Numbered-Edition 180 45RPM 2LP from Mobile Fidelity: Out-of-Print Audiophile Pressing of 2002 Homage to Joni Mitchell Will Test Your System   

Pianist/vocalist Patricia Barber is unique in the jazz world. Each album is more ambitious than the last, taking her deeper into avant-garde territory both lyrically and instrumentally. 2002's Verse is no exception.

The indelible"If I Were Blue" is perhaps the best thing Barber has ever written. Her voice is soft, almost matter-of-fact, and seems especially suited to whispering torch songs such as on "Dansons la Gigue." The intricate musical arrangements, augmented by the trumpet of Dave Douglas, help solidify Barber's world of cloaked intentions. His playful vibrato works like the flame of a candle illuminating her soft, shadowy corners.

Mobile Fidelity's numbered-edition MoFi 180g 45RPM 2LP set reveals all the subtle details in Barber's playing and vocalizations. This will place you in the studio with the band.