Susan Werner

I Can't Be New

2004-03-02

Susan Werner makes a foray into original jazz compositions with this, her fourth national release. It's great to see an artist stretch and grow, though the results are somewhat mixed. In many ways, this is a return to an early love for her, since she was playing in a jazz trio prior to beginning her "folk" career (inspired by a Nanci Griffith performance she saw). The voice is still there and her piano playing is outstanding. However, not all the compositions can stand up to the "great American song book", which her publicity material compares this release to. Hyperbole aside, this release does have some great moments, despite the inconsistancies. She's capably aided by Billy Novack, who assists with arrangements, jazz session players John Lockwood (bass) and Brad Hatfield (piano) and Fairport Convention drummer Dave Mattacks.

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Jazz

  • reviewed 08/2017

    Michael Gamble And The Rhythm Serenaders
    Get Rhythm In Your Feet

  • reviewed 09/2011

    SONNY ROLLINS
    ROAD SHOWS VOL. 2

  • reviewed 03/2017

    Billy Childs
    Rebirth

  • reviewed 05/2009

    ALLEN TOUSSAINT
    The Bright Mississippi

  • reviewed 12/2005

    VARIOUS ARTISTS
    Our New Orleans

  • reviewed 11/2006

    JAVON JACKSON
    Now

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.