I Want a Country Man

by Jason AnkenyDakota Staton's second Groove Merchant session refines the hip, contemporary sound first introduced via the preceding Madame Foo Foo--paired with arranger Manny Albam, she veers further away from conventional jazz sensibilities into soul, a move that perfectly complements her impassioned approach. Its earthy title notwithstanding, I Want a Country Man boasts an urbane stylishness that underscores the late-night ambience of the set--Albam's lovely arrangements serve both Staton and the material, adding depth and energy to songs like "Make It Easy on Yourself" and "I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know."