An Artist Unbound
Laird Jackson, a vocalist and songwriter of unparalleled originality, delivers a masterclass in emotional and sonic storytelling with her latest album, Life. Known for her unwavering artistic authenticity, Laird views singing as an act of baring one’s soul. In Life, she traverses an expansive emotional and musical landscape, exploring themes of longing, liberation, quiet romance, profound sadness, and boundless joy.
Her voice, an instrument of immense depth and versatility, effortlessly navigates this rich terrain. Whether diving into dramatic mystery or embracing the dreamy tug of freedom, Laird’s artistry evokes a sense of wonder, vulnerability, and strength.
The Journey So Far
Born in Cleveland, raised in Detroit, and now based in New York, Laird’s journey is as varied as her music. Her discography reflects a commitment to personal growth and artistic exploration:
Quiet Flame (1994): A debut that introduced her as a soulful force in jazz.
Touched (2002): A critically acclaimed sophomore album that showcased her growing artistic confidence and range.
Life (2024): A triumphant return that distills two decades of experience, travel, and self-reflection into an awe-inspiring 15-track album.
Laird’s hiatus between projects was not a pause but a recalibration. “Life happened,” she explains. “I didn’t stop living. I traveled, wrote, recorded on other projects, and dealt with life’s twists and turns. It all feeds into my music.”
The Album: Life
Life is a 74-minute genre-bending journey that merges jazz, soul, folk, and cinematic soundscapes into a cohesive masterpiece. Featuring 15 tracks—10 originals and 5 carefully chosen covers—it is a testament to Laird’s ability to weave disparate elements into a unified, emotionally resonant experience.
The album’s centerpiece is Laird’s stunning voice, complemented by an extraordinary lineup of musicians and the masterful production of Grammy® winner Jeff Haynes, whose previous collaborations include Cassandra Wilson, Pat Metheny, and Brandi Carlile.
Notable Tracks
“I Believe”: Opens the album with a message of hope and resilience, driven by Laird’s soaring vocals.
“Destiny”: A hauntingly beautiful meditation on fate and free will, layered with intricate harmonies.
“Rainbows”: A short yet impactful instrumental that provides a moment of quiet introspection.
“Life”: The title track, embodying the album’s theme of embracing life’s complexities with grace.
“Wild is the Wind”: A soulful reinterpretation of a classic, imbued with Laird’s unique touch.
Track Listing
I Believe (5:25)
Suhaili (5:56)
Dusk (4:45)
Make a Smile for Me (5:49)
Destiny (5:42)
In the Pines (3:51)
The River (4:59)
Rainbows (3:01)
Rounding the Sun (5:26)
The Wind (4:19)
Life (4:24)
World of Dreams (4:49)
Tender as a Rose (4:22)
Wild is the Wind (5:37)
Follow (5:07)
Musicians and Collaborators
Laird assembled a world-class roster of instrumentalists to bring Life to fruition:
Jeff Haynes (percussion, producer)
Marvin Sewell (guitar)
Gregoire Maret (harmonica)
Michael Manring (bass)
Charlie Burnham (violin)
Premik Russell Tubbs (sax/EWI)
Brandon Ross (guitar)
Eugene Friesen (cello)
Jennifer DeFrayne (piano)
Candace Coates (harp)
Critical Acclaim
Music critics and industry veterans are lauding Life:
“Laird Jackson is in possession of both a voice and a vision… Her sound emanates from that place where poetic fragility and soulful determination stand side by side.” – James Browne, WBGO
“A musical diamond buffed and polished, all facets flashing.” – Dan McClenaghan, All About Jazz
“Laird Jackson’s soulful vocal yoga… she stretches into uncompromising vocal positions effortlessly.” – Kathryn Shackleton, BBC Jazz
Production Excellence
Produced, recorded, and orchestrated by Jeff Haynes, with mixing and mastering by Corin Nelsen at SynchroSonic Productions, Life is a sonic masterpiece. The album’s lush soundscapes and meticulous attention to detail reflect the collaborative effort of a dedicated team.
Life is more than an album—it’s a journey into the heart and soul of an artist who refuses to be confined by genre or expectation. Laird Jackson’s triumphant return solidifies her place as a luminary in the world of alternative jazz and beyond. For listeners seeking music that challenges, soothes, and inspires, Life is an essential addition to their collection.
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