Marlena Shaw has always been a strong willed versatile female vocalist who can tackle a multitude of genres to huge success. Her standard style is as a true jazz singer and there is a hint of jazz in all her songs whatever the genre. SWEET BEGINNINGS from 1977 was Marlena's first release with Columbia and is very succesful at showing the great and diverse talent this woman possesses. The album opens with PICTURES AND MEMORIES a soulful uptempo track that rings with r@b and jazz touches. Then we move onto the album highlight which is her take of GO AWAY LITTLE BOY. This song has classic all over it and she rings out every emotion as she caresses this jazzy story song for almost 7 minutes. It is here that her true mastery of the craft is shown. The title track and THE WRITING'S ON THE WALL both show her tackling strong uptempo r@b tinged tracks. Excellent. LOOK AT ME, LOOK AT YOU and JOHNNY totally change things with their light and airy sound that provide an amazing backdrop for very sensual performances from Ms. Shaw. WALK SOFTLY is a lovely ballad. The album closes with a joyous uptempo jazz track I THINK I'LL TELL HIM that is true Marlena Shaw. This peppy number is actually about a woman talking about telling her man she has cheated and she is thrilled. And this is what Marlena Shaw does. Her personality is in the forefront as she owns each song with emotive ability. She lives each song and this album provides many styles which she tackles in amazing voice.The album is a tour de force from beginning to end and BBR presents it here on cd beautifully remastered with a bonus track and extensive liner notes. A great musical package. This cd is a must have. This is not just a great jazz/soul album from the 70s but rather a cd from one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time. If you know of Marlena Shaw a purchase is a no brainer and if this is your first introduction you will not be disappointed. Highly recommended.