by Stephen Thomas Erlewine Elegant Soul continues the pattern the Three Sounds began on Coldwater Flat, finding the trio moving away from mainstream jazz and closer to easy-listening pop. This time, the trio is augmented by strings, conducted by Monk Higgins. The strings aren't obtrusive, but the songs, which are divided between originals and covers of hits like "Harper Valley PTA," aren't as memorable or melodic as those on Coldwater Flat. Still, Elegant Soul has its moments, particularly in the ease of the trio's playing -- listening to their interaction, you'd never know that Carl Burnette had just replaced drummer Donald Bailey, who only appeared on two of the group's albums. For longtime fans, the pop aspirations make it a frustrating record, but for listeners looking for a smooth, easy-listening pop-jazz album, Elegant Soul isn't a bad choice.