Having proven several times over that she’s among the premier vocal jazz singers on the planet, Madeleine Peyroux makes her mark as a songwriter on the exquisite Bare Bones, her first album of originals. A thematic record that begins with wariness, moves to loss, builds to acceptance, and finishes with hope, the critically acclaimed set is Peyroux’s most soul-baring effort. The record’s title says it all. Deeply personal and eminently mature, the chanteuse strips everything down, from her emotional guard to the arrangements. Peyroux penned many of the songs with longtime producer Larry Klein (Joni Mitchell), and also co-wrote the standout “You Can’t Do Me” with Steely Dan legend Walter Becker. Becker's contributions also spice the title track, while noted tunesmiths Joe Henry and Julian Coryell assist on other songs. As usual, the singer enjoys the sparse, elegant backing of a small group of first-rate musicians. Peyroux’s alto vocals shine.
Sonically, Bare Bones continues Peyroux’s tradition of making some of the best-sounding albums around. Half-speed mastered from the original analogue tapes, Mobile Fidelity’s 180 gram 2LP set enhances the experiences of hearing Peyroux’s languorous gems. Transparent, airy, three dimensional, fully textured, and featuring extended response from the acoustic bass and guitars, this analogue pressing puts you in the middle of a coffeehouse, with Peyroux and her small ensemble seated a few feet in front of you. It’s that good!
Having proven several times over that she’s among the premier vocal jazz singers on the planet, Madeleine Peyroux makes her mark as a songwriter on the exquisite Bare Bones, her first album of originals. A thematic record that begins with wariness, moves to loss, builds to acceptance, and finishes with hope, the critically acclaimed set is Peyroux’s most soul-baring effort. The record’s title says it all. Deeply personal and eminently mature, the chanteuse strips everything down, from her emotional guard to the arrangements. Peyroux penned many of the songs with longtime producer Larry Klein (Joni Mitchell), and also co-wrote the standout “You Can’t Do Me” with Steely Dan legend Walter Becker. Becker's contributions also spice the title track, while noted tunesmiths Joe Henry and Julian Coryell assist on other songs. As usual, the singer enjoys the sparse, elegant backing of a small group of first-rate musicians. Peyroux’s alto vocals shine.
