Foothills Times January 2014 | Page 46

with with Wendy Moten has more than 20 years in the music industry. The Memphis born GRAMMY nominated vocalist has earned a vast collection of professional experience in Contemporary, R&B,Jazz, Rock and Country music since the beginning of her career with her self-titled debut recording (EMI) in 1992. Wendy recorded two more albums for EMI: Time For Change, an international success and European best-seller with “Change Of Heart”, “Your Love Is All I Know”, and “Life’s What You Make It”, which showcased her versatility as an artist, vocalist, producer and songwriter. Miss Moten has performed with many artists in various genres including Michael Bolton, Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Al Jarreau, Joss Stone, John Mayall, Kenny Rogers, Jeffrey Osborne,Montgomery Gentry, Brooks & Dunn, Alice Cooper, Mindy McCready, Marcia Ball, Joe Louis Walker, Bonnie Tyner, Todd Snider as well as many others. This ten song session of Wendy Moten gives tribute to one of the most accomplished but relatively unknown song writers of the twentieth century. The disc commences with a ballad that got my attention right away. “My Ideal” has been recorded by many artists, but Miss Moten placed her stamp on it and gave the composition a brand-new perspective. Next is the familiar “Miss Brown To You”. Wendy’s sass comes to life with the band giving her just the right support. “When Did You Leave Heaven?” is a real Blues tune. I recall Ernie Andrews singing the song on one of his CDs a number of years ago and now it’s in another orbit! Another song that’s a true standard, “He’s Funny That Way”, is a vehicle for Miss Moten to once again display her soft side. The bossa infected “Too Marvelous For Words” had me humming along with her. The pace is slowed down again with “Guilty”. “I Wanna Go Places And Do Things” had me wanting the song to be longer; I settled with the full three minutes that she gave me. Wendy obviously loves ballads and so do I. “I Can’t Escape From You” allows this artist to pour out her heart to her lover without apology. “True Blue Lou” sounds like a song that could have been recorded in the 1920’s or the 1930’s with Miss Moten giving it a modern feel. This studio recording concludes with “It’s A Long Time Between Kisses”. With the bossa nova sound attached to this one, Wendy Moten certainly gives due respect to Songwriter Richard Whiting. I imagine that he would give her a nod of approval if he was still alive. In addition, the musicians on this CD are superb; with the combination of all involved including the producer, Paul Brown. I was impressed with the project and I believe, if your hear it, you will be also. HARVEST HARVEST WILLIAMS WILLIAMS www.foothillstimes.com 46