I had to give a couple of stars just because Etta's voice will always touch me, but this album is a disappointment. Some originally soulful and beautiful music is unfortunately rendered somewhat cheezy, similar to much of today's so-called "smooth jazz." If you have a discerning ear, an appreciation for the depth of her voice, or want to really FEEL the music, you are much better off with Chess Records' "Etta James - Her Best," or the original "At Last," both of which are phenomenal albums

A great song selection, a great singer, but some lousy production. "Only Women Bleed" is the only number that shakes loose of the smooth-jazz format this CD is killed by. She's made better before and since - get this only if you REALLY want "Only Women Bleed" in it's 90s version. It's excellent.

The supreme legendary songstress, out does herself once again!Miss James vocal artistry and interpertations of variou standards and old signature songs is nothing short of pure vocal intensity and raw emotion.Like a fine wine , Etta"s voice just gets better as time goes by .She is long overdue for the title "Queen of Soul" and deserves another Grammy for this outstanding collection of song.

"Heart of A Woman" is like nothing else you will hear simply because there are very few singers who understand what they're doing as well as Etta James. Her style on the album is direct, honest and so rewarding that your expectations for what you should get for your CD money will change.

Just as an aside, I was at a listening station in the store and had just finished sampling Diana Krall's new album, which I had come in intending to buy. After listening to a couple of Etta's cuts I realized what "experience" must mean in the vocalist's craft. In about 35 yars Diana may be as good as Etta.

I am always surprised at how natural Etta handles cabaret songs. She brings her feel for the blues and bends her vocals just so to totally capture the jazz feel of some of the great standards. Not every song is a standard, however even the newer ones have the same style. On most tracks, the band gives the songs a combo feel. When the production is a little more full blown, it is still very simple and never feels heavy handed. Almost worth the price of admission, is Etta's updated treatment of her hit "At Last". So turn the lights down low, cuddle up with someone special and enjoy Etta as she explores the Heart of a Woman.