Now, here’s an interesting idea. North Carolina chanteuse Eliza Lynn has released an album of other peoples’ music with each song (and its specifics) chosen by fans doubling as co-producers. While probably an idea that could go either way depending on the dedication of the musician and the taste of their supporters, it’s fair to say that Eliza Lynn has pulled this off pretty well.
The album starts with the melancholic “We’re All in this Together”; a decidedly good introductory song. Similarly, “I Hope You Dance” gives an acute description of the concomitant feeling of happiness and sadness. Indeed, it is not until “Red Dress” (Kim Richey) that the album hits upbeat territory.
The acapella “Sit Down Servant” is perhaps the only weak song on the album and it’s not for a lack of effort on Lynn’s part. While a nice song in itself, the age-old gospel number doesn’t seem to fit with the flow of the album. “This Love Will Carry” (Dougie Maclean) returns the album to its earlier glories while the gentle strings of “When the Leaves Come Falling Down” would please Van Morrison at his crankiest.
With such a range of producers at the helm, there was every chance that this album would sound disjointed and patchy. However, this is not the case. There is a definite flow which is only interrupted by the aforementioned gospel song. Otherwise, all is well.
The idea of applying a democratic process to producing an album, on paper, seems ludicrous. However, all involved in the making of “Together” – Ms Lynn in particular – can be proud of what they have achieved. A peculiar concept, but a fine album.