Biography

RADIO PROMOTION BY Art Menius Radio
art@artmenius.com 919-675-2787

This is a delightful record, chock full of remarkable, thoughtful, and varied material, all sung with soulful emotion and power by Shannon Leigh Reynolds. Shannon is a new name for me and perhaps for you, too, but let me tell you, she won’t be a new name for long. Not only is Shannon a gifted singer, but also a talented songwriter. Four of the songs, “Closer to You,” “Hold On,” “Not for Long” and “Gone for Good,” which was co-written with David Morris, were composed by Shannon, and are featured on this great collection of recordings. All the original songs are smart or sassy or just plain fun and often a combination of all.

Shannon is backed by an all-star group comprised of some of the most talented players in the Washington, DC area. That’s saying a lot. DC was once referred to as the Bluegrass Capital of the World and these musicians back up that claim.

Along with original material, there are quite a few surprises here. For instance, I would never have thought of “Screaming Jay” Hawkins classic tune, “I Put a Spell on You” to be treated with such a unique touch. “Spell” quickly became a personal favorite. It’s kind of spooky and the modulation towards the end just adds the right amount of tension. Shannon certainly made this her own. The song, “Piney Wood Hills,” composed by Buffy Sainte-Marie, is also another standout for me and an instant classic.

Shannon does it right, and this record, produced by the inimitable Dede Wyland, is a winner by anyone’s standards. It’s righteous!

- Dudley Connell - The Seldom Scene