Many of the selections are not well-known but were chosen with the greatest care--a devoted tribute to French mezzo-soprano Jane Bathori, whose advocacy of contemporary vocal music during the 1910s and '20s is legendary, and who premiered many of the songs Upshaw performs here. By the way, the sound is remarkably natural, clear, and well-balanced; voice and piano sound as if they are present and live, just as they were in the theatre. There are a few audience noises, but they are minimal and quickly forgotten. Pianist Jerome Ducros, who maintains his own busy solo career, is an ideal partner whose every expressive gesture complements Upshaw's own. By the time the singer takes on and finishes the five Ravel songs, the totally enchanted audience has settled in for what it hopes is a very long evening. By the end of the Debussy set, an encore is inevitable. Following her spoken introduction (in French), Upshaw performs Dutilleux's "San Francisco Night", which has never been recorded before and for which the audience showed its unreserved appreciation. You are certain to do the same. [7/14/2001]