Search - Cynthia Sayer :: String Swing

The evolution of a serious jazz banjoist

Seymour | 10/11/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Sayer continues to evolve as one of the world's premier 4-string jazz banjoists. This CD showcases her in a more "swingy" style in which she extends her range by venturing into Western Swing on tracks like "South of the Border," "Tumbling Tumbleweeds," and others. What's particularly noteworthy is how her voice continues to improve with age, deepening in character and conviction. As a total work I think in some respects I prefer the song selection of the last CD, "Jazz at Home." However the overall quality of individual selections on "String Swing" shows evolution and more depth in the performances. It's also great to see an artist not afraid to take chances by playing in styles outside of their milieu. As an added bonus, the audio on this CD is the best of the her collection of work. The banjo is clear, the tenor guitar has tonal quality, woodwinds sound breathy, and her vocal is present and in good proportion to the instrument mix. I can't wait for the next one!"