Oh Mother
Cellar, 2024
8/10
The Vancouver singer and composer Andrea Superstein takes her own experience as a mother and uses it to fuel these jazz vocal songs that surround love and gratitude.
“To All The Mothers” starts the listen with many voices discussing motherhood, before Carlie Howell’s playful bass enters alongside Superstein’s bright and expressive singing, and “Everywhere” follows with Chris Gestrin’s flowing keys amid Dan Gaucher’s fluid drums and, of course, Superstein’s distinct pipes.
“I Carry Your Heart” arrives in the middle, and uses Rachel Therrien’s soulful trumpet alongside the bright tone of the vocals, while “Who Are You Now” welcomes Elisa Thorn’s dreamy harp to the intimate and heartfelt delivery.
Arriving near the end, “May You” spotlights Meredith Bates’ violin prowess via the ambient gestures and groove filled climate, and “Musicbox” exits with a lullaby-esque twinkling that will certainly remind any parent of the joys of having a baby.
Superstein interviewed around 100 mothers to see if her experiences were shared, and the powerful vocals lead the tracks in and out of a vast emotional range that truly touches on the profound fulfillment of parenthood.
Travels well with: Allison Au- Migrations; Jocelyn Gould- Sonic Bouquet