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.
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.