No More Excuses
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The 72 year old vocalist Danette McMahon tells stories of heartbreak, adoption and self-discovery here, where mostly originals unfold with strong attention to mood and melody thanks to the excellent help on hand.
“Innocent Bystander” starts the listen with Joe LoCascio’s warm keys and Paul Chester’s fluid guitar complementing McMahon’s expressive voice, and “Come Dance With Me” follows with Anthony Sapp’s cozy upright bass and Mark Simmons’ fluid drumming that suits the soulful spirit.
Deeper into the listen, “Naughty Girl” allows Ed Lowe’s bright trombone to shine in the frisky climate, while “Wonderwall” is an intimate version of the Oasis classic, where Patrick Moore’s cello and Andrew Lienhard’s piano match McMahon’s stirring voice.
Further still, “You And Me”, by Dave Matthews, benefits from the soft melodies via Milton Comeaux’s percussion, Lay Arredando’s flugelhorn, and, of course, McMahon’s smooth vocals, and “The Lady I Never Knew” exits with Phillips Jones’ animated organ skills adding much flavor to the rich finish.
A highly personal body of work, there’s much emotion and heartfelt appeal here, as McMahon tells her life story in song with much sincerity and relatability.
Travels well with: Linda Purl- This Could Be The Start; Jan Cronin- I Thought About You