Nina Simone made her first trip into the studio in New York during 1957 to record her debut album Little Girl Blue. In addition to her piano playing and vocals, the session featured Jimmy Bond on bass and Albert “Tootie” Heath on drums. At 25-years old, Simone’s performance boasted all the passion and ebullience of youth, and all the skill and grace of a seasoned veteran. The album has since become a classic, and these were her first recordings ever! Simone would not record again for two years. She signed a contract with the New York-based label Colpix Records in 1959, with whom she recorded her second album, The Amazing Nina Simone (Colpix SCP407). The LP features her singing (and playing a little piano) with an orchestra (the personnel is unknown) under the direction of Bob Mersey (four tunes that complete the sessions have been added as a bonus). Nina Simone, Vocals & Piano Orchestra Conducted & Arranged By Bob Mersey. New York, May 1959. Original Sessions Produced By Hecky Krasnow. Bonus Tracks: A7-A8 & B7-B8: From The Same Sessions, But Not Included On The Original Lp. B9: Nina Simone, Vocals & Piano; Jimmy Bond, Bass; Albert “Tootie” Heat H, Drums. New York, December 1957. 1. Blue Prelude 2. Children Go Where I Send You 3. Tomorrow (We Will Meet Once More) 4. Stompin At the Savoy 5. It Might As Well Be Spring 6. Youve Been Gone Too Long 7. Thats Him Over There 8. Cant Blow 9. Theme From the Middle of the Night 10. Cant Get Out of This Mood 11. Willow Weep For Me 12. Solitaire 13. I Loves You Porgy* 14. Falling In Love Again* 15. Thats All* 16. The Man With a Horn* 17. Since My Lover Has Gone* 18. If Only For Tonight* 19. Nobody Knows You When Youre Down and Out* 20. Come On Back, Jack* 21. I Love To Love [Live]* 22. Nobody Knows You When Youre Down and Out [Live]* 23. My Baby Just Cares For Me*
