Bern’s fans did not wait in vain

BZ BERN – Bern, Switzerland: April 14, 2011

JAZZFESTIVAL: Carmen Lundy, the black musical talent, was overdue in Bern.

Her performance of songs at Marian’s Jazzroom convinced even those who think there are plenty of singers around…

Almost all great jazz vocalists have been to this Music Festival at least once – except Carmen Lundy.

The Bern Jazz fans have been waiting a long time, and obviously not only the fans. Spontaneous and full of vigor, the 56 year old artist said, “My friends have told me about Marian’s. I absolutely wanted to come. Now I made it here. I’m so happy.”

If Lundy plans something, she is going to make it happen. For example, a CD in which she plays all the instruments herself – she calls this “entirely home-grown”. This was in 2009, a project called “SOLAMENTE” in which she did everything herself: composing, writing lyrics, arranging, producing, recording, mixing and playing half a dozen accompanying instruments. She hopes such a major effort is appreciated by the audience, but whether it is or not, her commitment to her work is absolute.

Lundy brought to Bern a Trio which is outstanding. The song “THE OUT CROWD” sounds much more communicative than the sterile studio version on the CD “SOLAMENTE”. The virtuosic pianist Anthony Wonsey, the Paris residing bassist Darryl Hall and the drummer Jamison Ross are on a par with the original star cast of 1995. “BETTER DAYS” is indisputably one of Lundy’s best songs, but has not made it as a real hit so far. “That’s why I am continuously writing new songs, searching for the one that will make it to the very top of the charts.”

Living the experience of a mature black woman in today’s America, she sings about the troubles and joys in everyday life. With exemplary assurance and confidence, not only with her voice but also by conveying her personal values, she is able to explore love’s realm without the usual kitsch and pathos. An extraordinary experience.

– Ulrich Roth