The ex-Hot Club of Cowtown violinist stretches her musical vision on her self-titled debut. James, one of the premier young stars of hot jazz, has put together a collection of standards and originals that showcase both western swing and string jazz, and her incredible playing. James evokes a bygone era smoky clubs and all-night dances without sounding like she`s a curio piece brought out to be shown once in awhile, only to be placed back in storage. She makes the music live and breathe. Legendary fiddler Johny Gimble guests. -- Jeff Weiss, Miles of Music (Snarf Records)
