One of the most beautifully eloquent and gently heartbreaking vocal recordings in recent memory, Tie Me To You is more than a showcase for an exquisite singer (the sultry, gossamer voiced Kathleen Grace) backed by an accompanist (two time Grammy nominated pianist/keyboardist Larry Goldings.
It’s an emotionally and spiritually transforming pairing of two world class, world weary but ultimately optimistic musical sojourners. The duo and their well-heeled ensemble spin an increasingly inviting and seductive narrative of that personal yet universal journey via three poetic originals, lush, often surprising re-imaginings of seven standards (from Cole Porter’s “Love For Sale,” the traditional spiritual “John the Revelator” and The Beatles’ “I’ll Follow The Sun”) and a lovely French ballad that’s so perfectly placed it doesn’t need a translation.
While the set is dominated by sparse arrangements and ballads, Grace and Goldings allow for some freewheeling whimsy on the Rodgers and Hart gem “Where or When,” featuring cheerful phrasing and bubbly keyboard tones. Though she’s rooted in classic jazz traditions, Grace also takes the opportunity here to convey emotions via dynamic pop, folk and blues arrangements.
Together, she and Goldings hit right at the core of how we all deal with pain and loss and struggle through the days looking for rays of sunshine and a way forward amidst the shards of our tattered pasts.