At the first meeting with Mandy Gaines and my group, it became instantly clear that it had been worth ”taking a chance…”. Mandy’s expressive singing and her strong phrasing showed the group rightaway where to lay the groove. She possesses the rare talent to give the lyrics a meaning, tell the story and make it her own. This always gives the interesting challenge for the accompanists to match it with a complimentary musical arrangement. We both took a chance and it paid off. When listening to this cd, I am sure you agree! Dear Mandy, love love love your release. great voice...great song selections...real interpretations!! (Byer's comments) Ms. Gaines and company have mined the treasure trove of the 20th Century American songbook, and have created a modern masterpiece in Taking A Chance. The arrangements by group leader and bassist Wade Mikkola effectively display the multifaceted talents of his sidemen in various combinations from duo to quintet. And while Mandy Gaines is a new name to this listener, it is evident from the sincerity and poise of her vocal expressiveness that she has achieved an uncommon mastery of the art of jazz and popular singing. This CD is truly a surprising find, a definite must have!!! (Roger Bennett - Pacific Jazz)