Carmen Lundy: Something To Believe In (2003)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: October 15, 2003

The message here is one of love. Love for all the good things that we believe in. Love for what makes us happy, and love for what keeps us on track.

Carmen Lundy’s rich alto voice brings jazz to her audience with clarity and balance. Her seamless phrasing gives the listener assurance that each lyric’s message rings true. As an artist dedicated to interpreting creative works, Lundy doesn’t dabble in superficial vocal acrobatics. That kind of stunt can be left for those singers, usually found in pop and R&B circles, who only want to show their wares. Lundy’s concern is for the message. She sings these love poems from the heart.

Regina Carter and Mark Shim add colorful interludes, while complementing Lundy’s purpose. She and Shim appear as long-lost lovers on “Vu Ja De” with freely interspersed phrases that produce an enchanted conversation. Lundy and Carter exchange glad tidings on “A Gift of Love” to reflect the miracle of birth and how much it means to us all year long.

Carmen Lundy is equally at home interpreting golden standards as she is creating new adventures. The common denominator is her high regard for genuineness of spirit. Her love message shines though like a beacon.

Track Listing: In Love Again; Something To Believe In; Windmills Of Your Mind; Happiness Is; Wild Child; I Loves You Porgy; Vu Ja De; A Gift of Love; It Might as Well Be Spring; Moody

Personnel: Carmen Lundy- vocals; Anthony Wonsey- piano; Curtis Lundy- bass; Victor Lewis- drums; Mark Shim- tenor saxophone on

Style: Vocal