Helen Forrest

Appearing with Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, and Harry James during the late '30s and early '40s, Helen Forrest became one of the most popular swing era singers -- even vocal authority Mel Tormé named her his favorite, male or female. Though her voice wasn't quite as clear as Doris Day's, Forrest was an excellent interpreter, and her sweet vocals proved a solid foil for the Benny Goodman band during 1940 and half of 1941. Collectors' Choice compiled her complete appearances with Goodman on three discs, though they're hardly overloaded at 55 tracks total. The package makes for a lot of great material, including her biggest hits while there, "How High the Moon" and "I Can't Love You Any More (Any More Than I Do)," the latter recorded with top swing guitarist Charlie Christian. Also featured is a previously unreleased track featuring Goodman's own competent vocal (reminiscent of Hoagy Carmichael) on "Jenny." ~ John Bush, All Music Guide