Irene Kral"s superb interpretation of ballads, delivered in a subtle and emotive style gained her a high reputation with cognoscenti. Since her death, she has become something of a cult figure amongst performers and fans. An elegantly poised ballad singer, she acknowledged Carmen McRae as one of her musical guides. Few other singers could interpret a full program of slow ballads and hold one"s interest throughout. The importance Irene placed on the lyric, and her understated yet ever present sense of swing influenced many.