Feb. 19-20 As a youngster growing up in New Jersey, my father made sure I had a little bit jazz and blues running through my veins by raising me on a strict diet of Dinah Washington, Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday.

And when I closed my eyes and listened to the rich tones of jazz vocalist Ranee Lee Friday night, I became a child again.

This Brooklyn-born songstress has become one of Canada's most popular jazz vocalists since she settled in Montreal about twenty years ago.

And I can see why -- Ms Lee completely wowed locals with such ease that she made the effort of putting on such a stellar performance seem like a walk in the park.

Although I was unfamiliar with her prior to this Festival appearance, I would have to say she is the best live jazz vocalist I've ever heard.

She stepped out onto the stage in a flowing cream-coloured dress and captured the audience with her luminous personality voice.

Ms Lee effortlessly carried the signature tunes of jazz greats such as "Them There Eyes'', "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off'' and "Summertime''.

As a real Gershwin fan myself (also part of Dad's legacy), I was thrilled to hear her perform selections from "Porgy and Bess'' with such skill -- taking them to a level equal to or beyond my beloved Sarah Vaughn.

She performed a few original songs as well, including a slow smooth song entitled "A Beautiful Sight'' and a faster-paced, humorous number that I absolutely loved called "Nana, What D'ya Say'' about Ms Lee's six energetic grandchildren.

Her talent is such that she's received an award for her portrayal of Billie Holiday in a production than ran in both Toronto and Montreal.

However -- and there is usually a "but'' in such a glowing review -- the supporting band was unfortunately quite mediocre, rendered even more obviously bland by Ms Lee's outstanding talent.

Although the pianist, guitarist, saxophonist and bass player were all technically proficient, none had any real fire, style, or particular originality to their performances.

I can't imagine any of them as solo performers unless it was for background music at a pub.

And the drummer was outright bad -- I wondered if he were actually a professional musician or whether he was just a stand-in. The way he played the snare sounded like pure static.

As our own local musicians become more talented and able to compete on an international level, it begins to make sense for an outstanding vocalist such as Ms Lee to leave her extra baggage at home.

Wow, imagine if that amazing voice of hers had been complemented by the likes of Kevin Maybury and James Richardson... the audience would still be standing for the ovation.

KIM DISMONT ROBINSON THEATRE THR