Sony Holland could be the finest female jazz vocalist on the planet, and this CD proves it. Phrasing. Power. Swing. Tenderness. A unique, absolutely distinctive sound that literally stops you. You will not find more perfect treatments of these classic standards anywhere. Make room, Tierney and Jane, and move over, Diane.

This latest,"Out Of This World" by vocalist Sony Holland truly lives up to it's name. The vocals - sensational. The music - Hot! And the three original tunes by Jerry Holland - Classics. This CD is awesome to say the least.

I first heard Sony Holland singing at the front plaza of Pier 39 in San Francisco. Although the daily entertainment there is generally good, the sweet, upbeat, sensual sound of Ms. Holland's voice stopped me in my tracks that afternoon. I turned around to see that these sophisticated vocalizations were coming from an attractive, blonde, woman dressed unpretentiously in a denim jacket and baseball cap. She was bouncing slightly, easily to her own lively sound. From that moment, I was hooked. She not only had an exceptional voice, but a uniquely diverse repertoire ranging from classics like "My Heart belongs to Daddy" to a wealth of original songs about the San Francisco bay area. Singing about local phenomena like the girls of Haight Street ("She's danger on heels, but I was no angel myself..."), Carmel by the Sea, and "On a San Francisco High", she is a delight to both the throngs of tourists milling about this plaza and locals like myself. (Actually, all of the songs I just mentioned are not on this particular album, but they are my favorites.)

She is also a very nice person. That day, I felt compelled to introduce myself to her and find out her story. Since then, I have returned several times to this pier to catch Ms. Holland's performances. When I have approached the platform to get a better view or to purchase one of her CDs, she always remembers me and greets me by name. In my life, this is the first time I could say that my favorite recording star, the one I most like to listen to when I am driving down the highway or falling asleep in bed, is also a friend of mine.

Sony Holland is a San Francisco diva with class and style. Her voice is instantly recognizable, her phrasing and ability to get her message across are undeniable. Audiences love her,and they follow her faithfully.

This is a genuine talent and you will be smart to acquire not only this CD but attend any show she performs in the Bay Area. I dig the AT LAST track, which is on this CD.

Goose bumps!