Customer Reviews

Bringin' It Back Again

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Judy Wallace sings with an expressive blues influenced voice, and writes memorable songs, no small accomplishments in any day. The Judy Wallace Group's "Bringing It Back Home" features twelve of her original songs, a bluesy track by Big Maybelle Smith, and a fine cover of a Lucinda Williams classic.

Wallace's voice and lyrics are the consistent highlight of the CD, in addition to the rapport between Wallace and bassist David Gries. Wallace is comfortable in the spotlight and Gries provides the solid foundation for her ease. He is especially good on "Grand Mal, Man." Another highlight is the backing vocals of Jeanne Heroux and Cheryl Parkington. They add a delightful finishing touch to several of the songs.

The versatile Bruce Abbot on saxophones, flute, and clarinet provides a vivid counterpoint to Wallace's vocals. Notable is his soprano sax on "Between the Lines," and his flute on "Too many Things on My Mind, " and on "Sweet Old World." Judy Wallace's lyrics express a wide range of emotion including at times a sharp wit and a pained sense of loss. She's at her best on "Casy," "Comin' Goin' Blues," "Grand Mal, Man," and "Not That Kind of Woman." Don't miss is her outrageous jazzy take entitled "Mrs. Beauregard Needs a Match." There's some excellent song writing here.

In short, the Judy Wallace Group is a band to keep your ear cocked for. They're a band who's at its best the closer they approach a "live" studio sound playing blues and jazz influenced material. These musicians can really play, Judy Wallace can really sing, and it's always refreshing to hear new songs from a talented writer. May we hear from them again, real soon.

Mike Neely
Traditional Jazz Editor
for All About Jazz
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