Little Girl Blue documents Nina Simone's unparalleled and idiosyncratic musical persona at a particularly vibrant, formative stage, and helped launch her on a trajectory with more than its share of personal and professional trials and triumphs.
Franklin was in her prime here, not only in terms of voice but also in terms of confidence. Made between her two groundbreaking live records, this is one not to miss.
Working in isolation, the Paramore leader extends the healing narrative of last year’s Petals for Armor with a sparse album that casts a mournful glance to the past.