Sweet, thoughtful and fun
by Windom Place
Lisa Ann Wright's first CD, Sweet Bye & Bye", reminds me why I like to spend so much time exploring the independent music scene. Every now and then you find a gem: songs you just want to keep for yourself, but you know you have to share. Listed here as folk, Wright's music, first and foremost, should not be confined to any genre. The Blues, Jazz and Country all share center stage. Her vocals are sweet and inviting, her lyrics thoughtful, and her melodies and arrangements often have a playful quality.
Geff King's energetic arrangement of Wright's "Lucinda" give the album its opening punch and may well be -- IMHO -- the best track. "Wendy's Song" chillingly tells the tale of the Green River Killer, Gary Ridgway, through the voice of his first victim, 16 year old Wendy Coffield. The song highlight's Wright's lyrical storytelling ability and invites you to listen again and again. "Someone" has a sultry, smoky jazz flavor, and "Everywoman's Blues" is just pure fun.
The CD is something of a family affair, Wright's son, Justin Mathews, appears throughout the album and co-authored "Preachers and Slaves" with his mother.
Unlike a lot of independent music, you will want to keep these songs and play them repeatedly...but be sure to share them with your friends and family. They'll be glad you did.
