PERFORMING SONGWRITER

The Innocence Mission - Now the Day is Over Jan. / Feb. 2005 (LAMP / Badman Recording Co.)

On this mix of standards and originals, the Innocence Mission’s Karen Peris combines her interpretive powers with superbly understated delivery. Framed, variously, by gently-strummed acoustic guitar, upright bass, cathedral piano and pump organ, Peris finds in these lullaby-like arrangements the perfect vehicle for a voice that embodies the word “ethereal.” Pared down to the core beauty of their melodies and lyrics, classics such as “Edelweiss,” “Over the Rainbow” and “Moon River” shine with a renewed glow. Bandmates Don Peris (Karen’s husband) and Mike Bitts are to be commended for empathetic accompaniment that creates a soft, candlelit vibe. Spicing Peris’ interpretations with a couple of classic instrumental lullabies by Chopin and Beethoven is a nice touch as well. - RH

FOR FANS OF:

Marianne Faithfull – Strange Weather
Cowboy Junkies – The Trinity Session
Frank Sinatra – Only the Lonely