Conjuring
Brontosaurus, 2023
8/10
The exceptional vocalist Lauren Henderson returns with her 10th album as leader, where themes of magic and mysticism that hone in on the power of Black American Music and Afro-Latinx experiences are supported by an excellent cast for the originals and standards.
“Spells” begins the listen with Eric Wheeler’s precisely plucked bass and Sean Mason’s warm keys alongside Henderson’s intimate voice in the soulful climate, and “That Old Black Magic” follows with Joe Dyson’s playful drumming complementing the expressive and strategically enunciated singing.
“Coercion” arrives at the halfway point and places Gabe Schneider on guitar for the dreamy album highlight, while “Day Dream” welcomes Joel Ross’ very animated vibraphone to the powerful and absorbing display of gorgeously textured song craft.
“It’s Magic” and “I Wish You Love” exit the listen, where the former benefits from Nick Tannura’s cozy guitar and John Chin’s sophisticated piano playing amid Henderson’s poetic pipes, and the latter blends the keys, drums, bass, vibes and inimitable singing into a truly timeless, memorable finish.
Henderson’s past albums includes Latin music and jazz nods, and this body of work also embraces, soul, R&B, fusion, and Flamenco moments into a very impressive 10 tracks.
Travels well with: Danielle Wertz- Other Side; Hailey Brinnel- Beautiful Tomorrow