Album Description: Wright's collaboration with Craig Street continues on The Orchard. While her prior releases boasted contributions from some of the jazz world's most respected jazz players, The Orchard features an eclectic cast that includes noted singer/songwriter Toshi Reagon, who co-wrote several songs with Wright; Calexico members Joey Burns and John Convertino; avant-guitar hero Oren Bloedow; longtime Bob Dylan sideman Larry Campbell; Ollabelle member Glenn Patscha; and guest vocalists Catherine Russell and Marc Anthony Thompson (aka Chocolate Genius).
The Orchard's fluid, intimate performances reflect the unpretentious spirit in which the music was created. The project actually began with a set of photographs taken by Wright in her rural hometown, focusing on the orchard of the title, a setting that she's known since childhood.
That organic approach was maintained throughout the recording process, which took place at studios in upstate New York's Catskill mountains, in Tucson, Arizona and Brooklyn. The sessions emphasized spontaneity and chemistry.
That rare ability to exist within the musical moment is one of the qualities that make Lizz Wright a special artist and The Orchard a career milestone. "This record was a huge learning experience, in every way, and I think it showed me a lot about myself," she states. "I never would have imagined that I would have written some of the things I wrote on this record, or told some of these stories. But I felt really free and I really let myself go, and I surprised myself."
Customer Reviews
Average Rating:
Rating: - Great music for drinking wine!
This is a fabulous cd. I am amazed Lizz Wright is not more well known since she is so talented. This cd is sultry and bluesy (albeit a little mellow) which makes it a great cd to unwind with a glass ... Read More
Rating: - A voice from heaven
I learned about this CD from watching CBS Sunday Morning -- This woman's voice is soulful, smoth and silky -- just a dream to listen to. And her lyrics are just as strong. Buy this album -- you won't regret ... Read More
Rating: - With this fine album, she has found 'her' voice.
Lizz Wright has never been shy of experimentation with her sound - seemingly exempt from any commercial pressure, she has been allowed a journey (perhaps by her label) that many of her contemporaries would ... Read More
Rating: - Flawless
Like something good that you know is good, Lizz Wright is synonymous with impeccability and goodness. Her third album is a testament to this. The beautiful voice and the prestine arrangement; its all there ... Read More
Rating: - Best CD in a long time...
Lizz Wright has cheered my days lately. Her deep voice and tender lyrics lull me through the commuter traffic. Try her out!
- Great music for drinking wine!
- A voice from heaven