Customer Reviews

Still

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Some music touches you on so many levels simultaneously that it's hard for even the most articulate to put it into words. That's the essence of "Still" by Jodie Manross.

"Still" is the debut CD from the band comprised of the divinely gifted singer/songwriter Jodie Manross and her three equally talented co-conspirators. There is not a weak link in the band's lineup, nor in the music itself. To compare this band's music to any other artist's style or sound would be a disservice, as it truly defies categorization. Every track has something unique to offer -- a simple yet beautifully expressed truth, an unexpected "shake-your-moneymaker-inspiring" rhythm, a vividly painted childhood memory cast with adult perspective, a vulnerability that you can identify with, an unforgettable melody that you can't get out of your head, begging you to replay the CD time and again.

Two things astound me about Jodie Manross' music -- one which you'll hear on the CD and one that you'll have to take my word on. First, as you'll hear, the *entire band* has mastered the art of dynamics -- loudness and softness of sound -- an acquired skill that is too often neglected by so-called professional musicians. The incredible dynamics are one of the secret ingredients to this beautiful music and truly distinguishes Jodie Manross from a host of wannabes who consistently perform at full blast because they either don't know better or aren't technically capable. This band never takes the path of least resistance, instead attending to the details of its original art without coming across with an overly engineered sound.

My second point, which you can't hear, is what I hope will entice you to give "Still" a try if nothing else I write does. I've never seen such a diverse audience at any live show as I routinely see at Jodie Manross' gigs. You've got your drinking and dancing college crowd, coffee-swilling 35ers like myself in search of something different, and even your adventurous 60-somethings, which further proves that the band's musical quality is self evident, transcending generational tastes and musical fads to offer something of true quality for the senses.

If you like clearly delivered, sometimes simple/sometimes soaring vocals, "Still" is for you. If you crave innovative accoustic and electric guitar (plus the oud - a little understood and demanding instrument to master) and out of the ordinary percussion, you'll love it. The cool and confident bass shines, too, the perfect and balanced complement to the whole richly textured brew.

Since I'm the first reviewer, I won't divulge my faves on "Still" - it's too hard to choose anyway. Instead, I challenge you to invest in the CD, give it your best listen and post your own opinion on this forum. After hundreds of plays, I still hear something new every time I listen to it. Jodie Manross and "Still" are timeless classics that will leave you hungry for more. And I'm willing to bet that it'll be a staple in your CD collection as it is in mine. A work you'll want to share with your friends and will still be glad you own 10 and 20 years from now.

Who is this little woman with such a huge voice? At first I felt like spirits grabbed me when I listened to it, but i didn't know exactly what it was. I believed at the time the music was growing on me, but today I realized that somehow it seeped into the fiber of my being. Wow! ...i, and inertia keep playing around in my head.
It would be unfair to label this artist as a Grass Roots bluesy Tracey Chapman with a little Janis Joplin attitude, but this may be ones first impression. I wonder what stories her eyes would tell.

-Michael

Over a year ago, I walked into a Jodie Manross concert by luck. I was totally blown away by her profuse appreciation for the people that came out to see the band, but was even more floored by the show. This tiny, almost fairy-like girl, blew the crowd away with a voice so big it demanded attention. Soon after the show, I moved to California, but have not forgotten that evening with the band. Yesterday, I wandered into a library and recognized her immediately. I thanked her for the show from over a year ago, and amazingly, she gave me "Still." It is a CD that is sure to rotate in my player for a long time. If you're into strong acoustic ballads, and looking for someone fresh that cannot be described in a thousand words or less, pick up this CD.

An incredible mix of vocals and rhythms that leaves you wanting more. Far superior to the run-of-the-mill voacl, guitar, bass, drums that pollutes the airwaves these days. Music like this is a rare find. Do yourself a favor and buy this CD, and then drive to Knoxville and hear them for yourself

This album is fantastic! Jodie Manross' voice will filtrate into anyone, calm and crisp like a soothing fall breeze. One doesn't even have to turn the volume up very loud to feel overcome by the power in this tiny gal's voice. This, my friends, is beyond talent, it's a complete work of art that deserves more appreciation. This is an album that has been truly loved by my stereo and although I have only owned it for less than a year, I am finding myself already having to buy another. You will never tire of Jodie's soothing lyrics and voice. Give this gal a try.

I was introduced to Jodie Manross and her band last year, and I quickly ordered the group's CD. If most definately deserves 5 stars. Jodie has the most powerful, beautiful voice, one that can rival and stand up to those artists that are so popular today. Her lyrics are moving and poetic. The band is also awesome. The blend of soulful ballads and funky beats is unforgettable. I also saw the group live in Knoxville, and the sound just as great live as they do on the CD. Everyone should check this one out. It is wonderful! There is no other word to describe it!

"Still" is a moving piece of work which is technically well-done as well. Jodie Manross has a dynamic, powerful voice and her lyrics show great promise and are at times just as powerful as her voice. Laith and the band have put together and mixed a progressive work here with some neat variety in the tracks. My bride-to-be and I were so moved by the work that we are using some of the music in our wedding. Roll on guys, can't wait for the next CD.

I was lucky enough to hear Jodie and her talented crew in concert. I went from shocked amazement, when that beautiful and powerful voice first came from this petite woman, to being moved to tears as I listened to the raw emotion of her words and music. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this cd and am anxiously awaiting the new cd due out in October. We hope to see them live again soon but until then I will be listening happily . If you want to listen first, you can check out Jodie's music on her website: jodiemanross.com. But I promise you, if you buy this cd, you will not be dissapointed. It is superb from beginning to end.

i love music. i listen to lots of live music. i perform my own music. jodie manross band is the REAL THING.

jodie is the 102-pound SIREN of Knoxville, and this album (her first) has blown us all away. For those not lucky enough to have heard her band live, prepare to experience lots of emotions. This little woman has really dug deep and lays it on.

having lived in knoxville only about three years, she has trounced the reader's poll as best female vocalist for two years running now. not bad for a spring-water swilling librarian, eh?

1997:i had rounded up all of our co-workers (jodie and i worked in a bookstore together) to go and hear her sing. she stepped up to the mike in a cute sailor-moon-type outfit, grinned shyly, thanked us profoundly for coming, closed her eyes, and,,,,,,,

i think we forgot to breathe for a few minutes. her resonance, her command over such a rich vocal vehicle...i have seen guys stealthily swipe at tears during more than one of her shows.

this album is not easy to pigeonhole, either. it's not just for sad, broke-heart lonely nights, nor is it for peppy, sparkling sunday brunch days. they cover a lot of ground with the songs.

all i can say is, be the one to introduce her to all of your friends, or soon they will be telling YOU about HER, and you'll mumble something about reading some review a few months ago......

In a world where I have a hard time finding CDs that I enjoy the whole album, this one is an exception. This CD is wonderful! Jodie's voice is so very soulful, and the band as a whole is fantastic! I'm wearing the CD out and can't wait to get the next one!