Still Life

Lynn Bush's latest release, Still Life, shows life, well, standing still-yet very much alive. This is accomplished audibly via Lynn's moody, vibratoless alto which saturates contemplative lyrics on "Slow Hot Wind," "Invitation" and "What a Way to Go." Visually, cover art of misty, overcast seascapes capture the desired effect.

There's an unconscious comfort present in the music, beginning with the initial track, "Dreamsville." Lynn sings it with an easy, free-swinging delivery, yet, at three-and-a half minutes in length, the groove is over before hitting stride. "Time for Love" and "Detour Ahead" are highlights. The later, given seven-and-a-half minutes to grow, nurtures a deliciously pensive mood.

Marc Seales' piano is Lynn's foil, casting minor chord shadows in the dim light of Lynn's devil-may-care delivery. Still Life holds together remarkably well as a concept album, making this a tremendous first start for Lynn and Origin Records. She states in the liner notes, "What you hear is the product of artistic merit and musical skill combined to breathe another lifetime into timeless compositions." Here's hoping for more.