For three decades, Dianne Reeves has been one of the most popular vocalists, thanks to her well-produced recordings and engaging live shows. On this date, recorded before an audience of 300 fans, Reeves weaves her trademark, hornlike contralto over smooth grooves that cross over mainstream jazz, contemporary pop, and world-music lines. Her band, featuring keyboardist Otmaro Ruiz and Wynton Marsalis"s bassist, Reginald Veal, delivers the Cat Stevens-associated church hymn "Morning Has Broken," Mongo Santamaria"s classic "Afro-Blue," and Cole Porter"s immortal "Love for Sale." She also pays homage to jazz"s Brazilian roots with her splendid, spirited readings of Antonio Carlos Jobim"s "Triste," a duet with guitarist Romero Lubambo, and Milton Nascimento"s "Bridges." On her lyrical, midtempo "Come In," Reeves"s cousin, keyboardist George Duke, turns in a brilliant solo, and "The First Five Chapters" is an autobiographical number inspired by author Portia Nelson. But the zenith of the set is "The Best Times (Grandma"s Song)," her new version of her most requested song, "Better Days," which sings the praises and virtues of family values better than our politicians. --Eugene Holley Jr.