I really like this album but the armpit cover turns me off. Who wants to see armpits? Who stands like that? I know it has nothing to do with the music but it's part of the package. One star off for each pit.

Not many young singers have the "chops" or courage to cover Nina Simone, one of the most original vocalists in history but her daughter, Lisa (aka Simone) has her own distinctly beautiful vocals and definitely did her mother proud!

This is an outstanding collection of some of Nina Simone's best singles and with backing from a terrific band, Lisa put a modern spin on them - most notably: BLACK IS THE COLOR OF MY TRUE LOVE'S HAIR. I love the arrangement of this track - it starts with her singing accapella then segues into a hip hop beat inspired updated rendition, a treat to listen to.

My other favorites are:

FEELING GOOD - this is one of my favorite Nina Simone tracks and I've never heard it sung (competently) by anyone else till now. Lisa sang it brilliantly by not trying to copy her mother's version.

MUSIC FOR LOVERS - a beautiful live duet with mother & daughter.

I HOLD NO GRUDGES - magnificent rendition

LOVE ME OR LEAVE ME - sassy track

KEEPER OF THE FLAME

DON'T YOU PAY THEM NO MIND - an exhuberant track

CHILD IN ME - the only original song penned by Lisa

HOW LONG MUST I WANDER - personal lyrics & a powerful presentation

I can't say enough about how enjoyable I find this collection of music. I'd definitely recommend it to fans of Nina Simone and also to those who are seeking beautiful arrangements sung by a vocalist who can SANG and made these songs her own.

As a long-time fan of Nina Simone, I was waiting in anticipation for the release of Simone on Simone. Nina's daughter, Simone, has given a wonderful tribute to her mother. Though no one is Nina or ever will be again, Simone has made a connection for fans that brings back the past while gently leading us to the future.

A powerhouse on stage in Aida, Simone's first studio album is a great tribute to her mother showcases her voice incredibly. While some tribute albums I have heard seemed like they were forced, this album is done in the most sincerest form. Simone's amazing voice creates such passion for the person behind the legacy of Nina Simone's music that pans over 40 years. Perfect for anyone who enjoys jazz, Nina, or even musical theater. All are related to this must-have album!

This week I listened to three new discs by three new female artists with a grand total of three names among them. Unusual week. Duffy got three stars. So did Adele. But Simone is positively the best. By far. Her voice is energetic and attention getting but still silky smooth. The songs match her perfectly, mostly standards and songs her mother, Nina Simone, has recorded. I don't like giving 5 stars (because nothing's perfect) but this is darn close. I won't be listening to the other discs again soon, but Simone will be on "repeat" for a long time.