Product DescriptionMary Beth Maziarz?s long-awaited new release, "Wish", continues in the tradition of Maziarz's other fine albums with strong writing, infectious rhythms, and heartstrings-a-pullin', but is infused with a freshness and energy that is absolutely stunning. The 14-song album covers a lot of territory; from the taunting, soaring dark opening of "Every Little Thing You Ever Wanted" to the sighing, parting glance, "Til Then," the listener is in for an emotion-filled, rich ride. Maziarz defines life's moments in a seemingly effortless way -- in songs like "This Is Our Life," "The Girl Goes Round," and "Lonesome in Love," listeners may find themselves awestruck as images from their lives (or others?) play like movies across glorious three-minute spans. But "Wish" carefully sidesteps the sappy, mushy paths that so many singer-songwriters tread. This is thinking-person's music: lyrics filled with ideas and poetic phrasing leaning up against rootsy, grooving rhythms. It's a rare, irresistible combination of simple and lush -- a gorgeous mix of clarity and complex. The difference between "Wish" and Maziarz's other albums seems to emerge most in the instrumentation; a fresh, taut production and fantastic energy inhabits the whole record. Although less pianocentric than her other records, "Wish" is still keyboard-driven, utilizing vintage Rhodes, Wurlitzer, and Hammond B3 sounds to strong effect and texture. And Maziarz's voice is, well, something special. Honest, clear, rich, smooth, growling, sly, kind, dreamy, haunting, sexy; these qualities all emerge from her vocal on ?Wish?, while somehow never leaving its recognizable foundation of alto intimacy. "Wish" is not easily classifiable -- is it pop? Rock? AAA? Alt-funk-folk? -- but ground-breaking, really interesting music rarely is simple to describe. Maziarz has found solid success in soundtracks, which these songs will surely support, but most interesting may be the way these songs become soundtracks in your life.
Track Listings (14) - Disc #1
