Jennifer Truesdale

Through the Circle

The first thing you will notice about Through The Circle is that Jennifer Truesdale has a thrilling voice. As a graduate of Berkeley  School of Music and a 25-year veteran of the music industry who has performed hundreds of shows on the East Coast, she knows exactly how to use it, too. She is equally comfortable with blues, jazz, soul and gospel-inspired songs. Truesdale also co-produced the album with David Minehan and is backed by a magnificent group of musicians.

The music comes out swinging with the soulful “I Need You Tonight,” which immediately reminded me of Diana Ross. Then it moves into the mellow R’n’B of “Thinking of You.” before the jazzy “Daydreaming.” Next comes an absolutely remarkable version of “Have You Ever Seen The Rain” which transforms it completely into a shimmery, beautiful ballad without changing a single word. This is such a show-stopper you may have to hear it again before moving on to the next song. Get used to that.

The lovely, languid “sunrise,” with the wonderful piano accompaniment to that amazing voice, leads to the next song that will probably stop you in your tracks. It is called “We Will Not Be Forgotten,” an inspirational anthem ripped straight from church that will make your spirit soar to the skies!

“River To Nowhere” continues to offer inspiration but with a mellower gospel swing and some tasty horns. and then we get the thoughtful, mellow “Moving Mountains,” a more personal testament to the power of love.

This leads to the second astonishing cover.”Love The One You’re With” becomes a powerful R’n’B mover and shaker in Truesdale’s version, once again staying true to Stephen Stills’ lyrics. You know you are listening to a true talent when a singer can take a well-known song like this and the earlier Fogerty classic and create something new and fresh from it.

“My Life” concludes the album with a soaring, introspective ballad. At this point, Truesdale has woven a beautiful tapestry of blues, soul, R’n’B, gospel influences. This one will be good for your sou!