Chris on God Bless the Child (CTI Records 40th Anniversary Edition)

This moving, spiritual piece from Kenny Burrell is a standout. While I don’t usually care for the typical "strings with artist" approach (see Wes Montgomery), arranger Don Sebesky and producer Creed Taylor do a superb job here. They accompany Burrell beautifully without overwhelming his trademark blues and swing style. The result is one of the finest and most heartfelt recordings of his catalog. Although it’s a shame this was his only release for the CTI label, it remains an engaging listen—especially the title track and a near tear-jerking rendition of "A Child is Born." It's a must-hear for anyone exploring his post-Blue Note work.