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Holly Long, Erin Bode, Soulfood and Bliss
InTune: CD Reviews | by Anthony J. W. Benson


New releases

Every Little Seam, by Holly Long [www.hollylong.com]

Holly Long is a talented singer/songwriter based in Los Angeles. But, unlike the throngs of others in LA attempting to stake their claim as the next important artist to pay attention to, Long has quietly, yet impressively, distinguished herself from the pack. Her second CD, Every Little Seam, unfolds with telling themes and beautiful stories -- a perfect blend of light and dark, pain and self-discovery and loss and romance. A supremely gifted storyteller, Long, deftly pulls you into her world through glorious music and production, but once there, you realize the depth of her craft, and ultimately nuanced layers of stark truth are stunningly revealed. Long possesses a gorgeous voice that perfectly compliments the artistry found in her songwriting. Every Little Seam is an adult-minded and honest recording which expertly reflects the human experience as distilled through Long's watchful eyes and open heart. Her self-penned songs, especially "Chameleon," "King of the Mole Hill," "Back at Our House" and "Now It's Time" truly represent a major talent, who gratefully, is committed to showing us the deeper part of ourselves in her liberating songs.

Don't Take Your Time, by Erin Bode [www.erinbode.com | www.maxjazz.com]
On today's jazz/pop landscape there are currently a few others of like-kind, but higher profile artists, than the talented Erin Bode. Diana Krall and Norah Jones come immediately to mind. Vocalist Erin Bode's new CD, Don't Take Your Time, is a pleasure to behold. Filled with well-chosen songs by artists such as The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Bill Monroe and Cyndi Lauper (a gorgeous version of "Time after Time"), Bode has beautifully captured the spirit of these and other songs, ultimately making them her own. The measure of interpretation of any skilled artist is in their ability to bring something new to the work, impart their talent in a way that is fresh and original. Bode has artfully succeeded in accomplishing that in many ways, in great part with the added support of expressive musicians who compliment her perfectly. Gifted with a clear and supple voice, Bode is a startling fresh new talent who will soon be a higher profile artist herself, opening doors for others.

Sacred massage, by Soulfood [www.soulfoodmusic.com]
Soulfood, the heralded record label and burgeoning musical force, has crafted beautiful and well-received and bestselling CDs throughout its relatively short, but successful existence. Their newest offering, Sacred Massage, artfully embraces the influences of some the world's sacred cultures and provides a soothing and blissful musical experience.With talented producer and label co-founder DJ Free at the helm, crafting the stunning ambient sound, Sacred Massage is an enveloping sonic pleasure. Original songs such as "Pearl," "Dreamscape," "Enlightenment" and others will perfectly complement any meditative practice or massage experience. Musically designed to whisk you away to a place of comfort and relaxation, Sacred Massage does so successfully and is a welcome addition to any CD collection.

Undiscovered Gem

Bliss, by Bliss [www.blissfulmusic.com]
Blessed with Lucinda Drayton's angelic and pure voice and Andy Blisset's rich and spaciously ethereal arrangements and production, Bliss is a true musical godsend. Musically rich and textured, Bliss is a stunning recording that opens the heart and heals the soul. Original songs such as "Thank You," "Breathe On Me," "Be Who You Were Born to Be" and the timely "War No More" are wonderfully life-affirming in their message and intention of peace, love and hope. Swirling with a beauty rarely captured by many of today's artists, Bliss is that rare musical group that captures the essence of life's truth and possibility in song. Powerful in its quiet intensity and stunningly beautiful in its presentation, Bliss is a remarkable recording of love that emanates from their being to yours with style and grace.

Please send all CDs and DVDs for review to: Anthony J.W. Benson, c/o InTune, P.O. Box 1152, Longmont, CO 80502. Submitting product does not guarantee review. All submissions will not be returned.

Anthony J.W. Benson is the founder of injoi Music, a unique forum for artistic and creative development. His 29-year career in the entertainment industry has encompassed varied horizons, from artist management and production to involvement with international multi-media events and concerts. Anthony served as the director of A&R for the respected record label Tambourine Inc. He is available on a select basis for consultations and welcomes new projects. He may be reached at: anthony@injoi.com
Copyright © 2005 Anthony J.W. Benson. All rights reserved.
February 2005

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