LA-based vocalist Judy Wexler takes on classic Baby Boomer hits that had social messages of conviction and hope, but cleverly avoids sounding either nostalgic or preachy in the tightrope of a process. She’s teamed with Jeff Colella/p, Larry Koonse/g, Gabe Davis/b, Stee Hass/dr, Bob Thiele Jr/g, Danny Janklow/as, Hendrik Meurkiens/harm along with an occasional string section and background vocals.
Backed by a string quartet, she delivers a personal and poignant read of “American Tune” with an alluring mist of an atmosphere during “Since You Asked”. She is earnest while spaciously enunciating encouragement on “Get Together” and funky for a plugged in take of the hippie-anthem “Big Yellow Taxi”. Colella’s melodica adds spice on Wexler’s poetic take of “The Times They Are A-Changin’” while capturing the personal reflections of the lyrics delightfully on a heartfelt “Who Knows Where The Time Goes”. You don’t need wide wale cords to enjoy these pieces, with messages as poignant as ever, and music just as fresh.
Give these pieces a chance.