Jelena Ana Milcactic a.k.a. Helen Merrill cover

Jelena Ana Milcactic a.k.a. Helen Merrill

Helen Merrill

Album 2000

About this album

Sound: "A soothing blend of jazz standards and heartfelt ballads, showcasing Merrill's emotive vocal prowess."

Where they were

By the time of this release in 2000, Helen Merrill was a seasoned jazz vocalist with a career spanning over five decades. This album marked her return to the recording scene after a relatively quiet period, reflecting both her enduring artistry and the evolution of her vocal style in contemporary jazz.

Why it matters

This album is significant as it reintroduces Helen Merrill to a new generation of listeners, bridging classic jazz with modern interpretations. It received critical acclaim for its intimate arrangements and emotional depth, further solidifying Merrill's legacy in the jazz world.

Essential tracks

  • "Wayfarin’ Stranger" — Merrill's interpretation of this traditional folk song highlights her ability to convey deep emotion through subtle phrasing and nuanced dynamics.
  • "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child" — This track showcases the raw power of Merrill's voice, transforming a spiritual classic into a poignant expression of longing and resilience.
  • "My Father" — A deeply personal tribute, this song allows Merrill to reflect on familial ties, blending nostalgia with her distinctive vocal warmth.

Release Date

January 18, 2000

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Kirje 3:15
  2. 2 Imagining Krk 2:15
  3. 3 Long, Long Ago 4:35
  4. 4 My Father 7:18
  5. 5 La Paloma 5:57
  6. 6 Tanac 1:41
  7. 7 Wayfarin’ Stranger 4:26
  8. 8 I’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen 5:30
  9. 9 Lost in the Stars 5:19
  10. 10 Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child 5:36
  11. 11 Among My Souvenirs 3:47
  12. 12 Nobody Knows 2:33
  13. 13 Ti Si Rajski Cvijet (You Are a Flower From Paradise) 1:01