Laird Jackson

Life

Self-Released, 2024

8/10

Listen to Life

The inimitable jazz vocalist Laird Jackson brings plenty of emotion to these 15 timeless tracks that welcomes an all star cast of instrumentalists.

“I Believe” starts the listen with much warmth, where layered vocals and Jeff Haynes’ playful percussion carries plenty of soul, and “Suhali” follows with a sublime, delicate appeal, as light guitar and sophisticated strings suit the expressive singing.

Moving closer to the middle, “In The Pines” pairs Jackson’s powerful pipes with plucked guitar, while “Rounding The Sun” is strong on atmosphere that allows for Gregoire Maret’s harmonica acrobatics to shine in an otherwise bare climate.

Deeper yet, “ Tender As A Rose” is indeed calm, and showcases Jackson’s flawless talents alongside mesmerizing drums, and “Follow” exits with a pretty demeanor of sophistication and poeticism via the stirring voice and light instrumentation.

An album of mystery, romance and even sadness, the songs here are often sparse but no less impactful in the highly soulful and memorable execution.

Travels well with: Shannon Gunn- On A Mountain; Darden Purcell- Love’s Got Me In A Lazy Mood