New Orleans-based jazz singer Cassandra Wilson headed to Italy to record with producer and guitarist Fabrizio Sotti, who provides Wilson with a new musical landscape and fresh insights to apply to her repertoire. Wilson turns in an inspired rendition of the ancient Italian standard "O Sole Mio," and includes an unexpected mellow-but-funky version as a bonus track on the Deluxe Edition of the album. Wilson's most underrated talent is the way she serves the music. She plays down her considerable chops. In fact, guitarist Sotti appears to have more showcases here, with some stellar guitar work on "Deep Blue" and "Letting You Go," the album's two instrumentals. Elements of blues, flamenco, bossa nova and classical fuse together effortlessly. Wilson sings "Passion" by parcelling out her emotions, ensuring that nothing could be construed as over-emoting. Considering how many singers have been taught to over-sing, Wilson's minimalism is a refreshing alternative.