When Jerri Adams (1930-2014), a native of Cincinnati, was a high school student in Norwood, MA, she decided she wanted to become a singer, despite the fact that “practically everyone discouraged me,” as she later recounted. Ultimately, her persistence and determination paid off. At twenty-five years old, she recorded her first album, “It’s Cool Inside,” for Columbia Records, which established her as one of the most exciting new vocalists to emerge in years. Her singing was relaxed and enjoyable, showcasing a vocal quality that fell somewhere between Carmen McRae and Peggy Lee, yet remained distinctly her own, with a style that swung plenty, even on the slowest numbers. With her careful song selection and a keen sense of drama, she brought a passionate quality to both her repertoire and performances. The inclusion of top-notch jazz musicians in her band further enhanced the album, making it a delightful listen for jazz enthusiasts.

—Jordi Pujol (Taken from the back liner-notes of FSRV 143)