Search - Kristy Jackson :: "Blue Shades"

"Yeah, You Right!" (New Orleans slang for "Bravo!")

James L. Leonard | Tampa, FL | 12/08/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"It's difficult to know just where to begin this review, in that BLUE SHADES holds so MANY pleasures. Ms. Jackson plays a VERY mean piano on her various blues, and with tremendous sensitivity on her ballads; it's evident she writes and sings from the heart (alternately, with knowing wit or considered reflection); and she's wisely chosen to provide us with a crystal clear, "no frills" production, wherein she and her small circle of accomplished musical friends sound like they're right there in the room with us.I first found out about Ms. Jackson via Reba McEntire, who's recent hit "Take It Back" was a Jackson composition. On BLUE SHADES, she offers her own welcome version of the hit, as well as nine others which effectively showcase the impressive range of her songwriting and interpretive talents. (I've recently learned that Ms. Jackson is in constant demand on the Nashville music scene. It's no wonder!)From the pedal-to-the-metal blues and boogie confessionals, "I Got It Bad" and "Kick Down The Door", to the smoldering burn of collaborator Cliff Goldmacher's "Slow Fuse", to the introspective heartbreak of "Me And Mr. Pride", Ms. Jackson delivers a deeply satisfying, and varied, collection of originals. In spite of that variety, or, more to the point, BECAUSE of it, she never loses sight of her strong identity or her resolute artistic vision.I, for one, can't wait to see just where this still-blossoming talent takes us next!"

If you love an "original musical find" this is it.

Sam Derence | Chicago | 10/29/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Some very good artists have had debut CDs with a raw, unpolished energy and enthusiasm that is not yet manipulated by label sales. Add another one to this short list 'cause Kristy Jackson's "Blue Shades" is a great example of music that seems to come directly from the artist to you. What is especially gratifying is the fact that you simply cannot put this album in a standard musical catagory. Shades of Lyle Lovett's "Joshua Judges Ruth" and Loggins and Messina's "Full Sail"? These are two of my favorite CDs and the coolest part is when you listen to "Blue Shades" I have a sneaky suspicion you will hear trace's of some of your own favorite's. But mostly you will hear Kristy Jackson's strong vocals, a brilliant songwriter and music that could stand on it's own. This is a very special artist. It's also my new favorite CD and you owe it to yourself to give it a listen."

"It's About Time!"

Judy T. Haughey | Aurora, IL USA | 03/22/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This may sound passe, but I actually went to high school with Kristy Jackson, and, after having heard this CD, am thrilled to admit it! Believe it or not, the percussionist really DID only use items they found in the kitchen! Cliff Goldmacher plays an AWESOME harmonica - you really have to hear it to believe it. All of the keyboard and vocals were Kristy herself - and she only gets better with time! Her intro calls the CD a "racket", I call it a joy to listen to. She sings from her heart with feeling and inspiration, and every emotion she feels while singing will pass through each listener, guaranteed! One of the best things about this CD is that Kristy has not allowed the music itself to drown out her terrific voice, and the combination of the clarity of her voice and her excellent enunciation lets the listener really hear and understand every heartfelt word! No straining to hear her voice over the music, as is so often the problem these days. Perhaps it is the sheer simplicity that makes this CD such a pleasure to listen to. Way to go, girl - I'm proud to know you!"