Linda Connell Studley "Breathe" CD Review

It’s the facets of a gem that catch the light and ‘Breathe’, Linda Connell Studley’s second CD, does the same. Dulcet ballads are punctuated with more up-tempo offerings and, in both, Studley captures different aspects of the heart with well-crafted lyrics. Fast or slow, the music will strike just the right chord with listeners.

More contemporary than her first CD, ‘Breathe’ offers a musical scope that reflects Studley’s years of song writing experience. The sometimes haunting, sometimes playful songs are a departure from her original CD. Her Celtic roots shone in ‘ New Traditions’ and while her newest work takes her skill and expresses it in the truest folk fashion, fans will still recognize the same rich vocals and instrumentation they’re used to.

Like her previous work, much is added by the talents of musicians who have the uncanny ability to hit just the right tone to compliment her music. Guitarist Ian Smith coaxes his guitar to make magic once again, Rick Slack weaves a solid foundation on stand up bass and Greg Wandling keeps it all together with percussion that doesn’t need to overshadow the whole. The harmony in ‘Fly with Angels’ just has to be Barb Munro’s – the perfect counterpoint to Studley’s vocals.

While Studley says she doesn’t have the technical knack they do, she does know exactly what she wants and has orchestrated a no-nonsense down-to-earth sound with this CD. ‘Breathe’ is a sweet surprise and a gem well worth adding to any collection.

Written by Joei Warm

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