Lifeline
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
The vocalist and guitarist Laura Zucker returns with her 6th album of original tunes, where themes of regret, surprise, wonder and adjustment are fleshed out with some excellent musicians on hand.
Zucker is joined by Ed Tree on bass, guitar, harmonium and mellotron for the swift and warm folk opener, “Takes The Shape Of You”, and “Highwire” follows with Tree’s bass and electric guitar for the intimate and reflective climate.
Further on, “Time/Love” benefits much from Richard Dodd’s elegant cello on the stirring album highlight, while “Autumn” welcomes Ben Zucker’s vibes to the atmospheric and heartfelt mood that’s poetic.
Landing near the end, Zucker’s piano and synth pad emit much beauty on the graceful “Do You See The Moon”, and “Holy”, one of the fuller selections, is populated by Scott Babcock’s drums, Marty Axelrod’s acoustic piano and Hammond organ, Tree’s bass and guitar, and, of course, Zucker’s expressive pipes
A very honest and insightful listen, Zucker’s songs are packed with bright imagery and her charming melodies certainly won’t go unnoticed across these very thoughtful 13 pieces.
Travels well with: Angela Easterling- Witness; Megan Bee- Cottonwood