CHANGES – CD Review

By CriticalJazz.com, February 18, 2012

There are singers, storytellers, artists and then there is Carmen Lundy.

Lundy is the epitome of the searching artist and pulls off the musical hat trick as vocalist, composer and arranger with relative ease. The amazing thing about Lundy is her high level of consistency and genuine authenticity. Musical integrity is a rare commodity these days. Did I mention Lundy is a celebrated visual artist as well? Check out the cover art…

Changes represents a slight departure for Lundy as many of the tunes were written or re-imagined on guitar. Along with several other musicians of note Brazilian master guitarist Oscar Castro-Neves makes an appearance. No matter the ensemble setting, Lundy is able to maintain a special intimacy in each tune seemingly unparalleled in modern jazz today.

"The Night Is Young" opens and is a perfect example of Lundy's prodigious work as a gifted lyricist. A subtle and inviting myriad of influences has Lundy performing a vocal exploratory and setting the table for an impeccable style that continues throughout the release. Anthony Wonsey on piano works in a virtual counterpoint to the masterclass in dynamics that Lundy displays with this generous offering. The standard "A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square" is given new life with a rich pulsating arrangement from Lundy. Making old school new cool never sounded better. Wonsey's fender rhodes adds a deep sonic color to this vibrant number. The ability to take others work and place your own indelible mark without disrespecting the original or yourself is the sign of a true artist and Lundy has this gift down cold. "Dance The Dance" is a showcase of vocal versatility for Lundy. A deceptive swing in odd meter creates a dramatic dynamic tension while this eclectic tune dances on the edge of the abstract while the band plays with the vocals of Lundy in a continuum of harmonious synchronization.

Carmen Lundy has a career moving into its third decade. Lundy is not the classical jazz diva in the strictest sense of the word. There is not an ounce of self indulgence nor are the band members relegated to the roles of supporting cast. Lundy is a throw back artist in style finding a musical happy place somewhere between Sarah Vaughn and Betty Carter but with the unique gift of a prolific contemporary composer and arranger. A true jazz triple threat.

Working as a critic is far more than looking for the critical issues of a recorded work. A critic should be a jazz advocate, having said that you would be hard pressed to find Changes showing any chinks in Carmen Lundy's artistic armor. As warm and comfortable as a favorite sweater, Changes should raise the bar for vocalists everywhere.

5 Stars.