At 73, an age when many folks are enjoying the diversions of retirement, Lee has released one of the most taxing and notable works of her long career. Love Held Lightly: Rare Songs by Harold Arlen features Lee in world premiere recordings of music by one of the most profound of American songwriters... The album's tour de force has to be "I Had a Love Once," with a lyric by Arlen. Written for the composer's wife, Anya, who died in 1970, the piece amounts to a terse, anguished cry of grief. -- Howard Reich, Chicago Tribune

The care that Peggy Lee -- and producers Bill Rudman, Ken Bloom, and Keith Ingham -- invested in this unusual new Harold Arlen songbook is clear. Two bittersweet "unknowns" from failed musicals, "Come On, Midnight" and "I Had a Love Once," will likely live on once other singers hear Lee's darkly moving readings. Here, her age is an asset. -- Chip Deffaa, Entertainment Weekly

This magnificent match between songstress Peggy Lee and a rare Harold Arlen repertoire (written 1937-73) has finally been released... The captivating title ballad confirms that Lee retains the intimate, satiny delivery -- her trademark at the height of her popularity in the '50s and '60s. There are those who might claim Lee's voice betrays her age, but without doubt, she cleanly and smoothly hits the notes without strain. -- Nancy Ann Lee, Cleveland Free Times

Easily the most interesting Peggy Lee release of the past decade ... This set finds Lee singing 14 Harold Arlen songs, all but the last two being quite obscure... Lee's tiny voice works well throughout this respectful program and the concise jazz solos offered by the backup band... uplift the material. -- Scott Yanow, Cadence

Miss Lee's voice is perhaps a little thinner and a little worn, but still comes out beautifully in tune and swinging. Even with such a late recording as this you can hear the laconic, almost fatigued approach which was a distinguishing feature of Peggy's vocal style. Listen also to some of the inflections. Peggy Lee really is one of the most sensual vocalists in jazz. -- Martin Richards, Jazz Journal International