Upon signing with Norman Granz for Verve Records in the early fifties, Billie Holiday recorded a set of songs with a small combo, reminiscent of the work she did in the thirties. The significant difference, however, is her voice: the early fifties were Holiday's glorious "in between" period; more mature and textured than her early years but not as ravaged and drug-worn as her later recordings. With the quintessential Holiday nuance, a top-notch set of songs and a stellar backing that includes pianist Oscar Peterson, Holiday offers up one of the strongest and most consistent albums of her distinguished career.

Both "Blue Moon" and "Moonglow" have the easiest of swings, enhanced by masterful vocals and first-rate horn solos, and "I Only Have Eyes for You" is one of her bounciest and strongest uptempo recordings. But for those of you who cherish her bluesier side, never fear: her gift for melancholy can be cherished on the gorgeous, Duke Ellington-penned title track, as well as the wistful classic "These Foolish Things (Remind Me of You)."

Throw in a gorgeous remastering and near-perfect mix and you have one of the most impressive albums of an incomparable career. Whether you're a longtime fan eager to hear her in her finest element or a jazz novice curious as to why Billie Holiday is still so revered four deacades after her passing, "Solitude" is a treasure to behold.

Billie is incomparable... Honey laced voice and a longing, lonely soul make her one of the premiere jazz/blues vocalists of all time. This is a great collection of moody pieces, worthy of listening to in any mood or setting. Though a rainy, winter afternoon would resurrect Billie to give you a warm embrace. A good place to start for any budding enthusiasts of classic jazz vocalists.

Billie scores another triumph for herself with this essential recording. Made in 1952 when her voice was still in pretty good shape (most of the fans will agree after listening). The song selection was a bold one since half are from her Columbia days in the 1930's. Here is a different Billie because most of the tempos have been slowed down to suit her taste and preference. This was her first release since leaving the Decca label and what a big relief it is to hear her again in a jazz combo setting with some occasional saxophone backing thrown in. Every song is framed around Billie's voice and her wonderful interpretation. While her voice has taken on more rasp, it has also grown fuller and rich with nuance and subtlety, something she did not possess in her "golden era" of the 1930s. All are standards on this 15-song set, including an alternate take of "Autumn in New York". Verve has done a pretty good job remastering, though some hisses are still evident, but it doesn't get in the way of the aural enjoyment of Billie's performance.

I have been listening to this classic on vinyl for the past 27 years. It is without a doubt the best Billie Holiday I have ever heard. Now that it is on cd, I, unfortuneately, have to share it with the rest of the world. There is not a better recipe for romance than a bottle of good wine and Billie's First Verve Sessions.

This album is essential to the collection of any Billie Holiday fan. It is incredibly moving and will provide the perfect atmosphere to an evening spent alone with a good book and a warm bath or for a romantic evening with a loved one.