Combining a variety styles from jazz to pop to r&b, Julie Lord has produced a debut cd that is sure to appeal to those who prefer their music smooth and easy. Hailing from England, Ms. Lord has been singing most of her life. After experience in two bands she has decided to strike out on a solo career performing her own original material. "Lifetime" is a collection of ten of those songs.
With a sound that would be comfortable on any light jazz or easy listening radio station, the sax work of Ian Trewhella is combined with guitar and keyboard to produce music that is a bit jazz, a bit blues. Lyrically, Lord explores themes ranging from broken relationships to the need for the presence of the Lord in one's life. In "One Way Ticket," a song about the futility of worldly success, she sings:
You need a one way ticket to heaven;
You're never gonna get to heaven on you own;
Just raise your eyes to heaven;
There's no need to live your life alone.
The big band sound of "Even Now" laments the death of a relationship but expresses hope that something may still survive.
When shadows lengthen and the seasons change
The cold reality of living is the same;
Two separate people leading two separate lives;
Love seems impossible but never really dies.
The project ends with a prayer entitled "Peace Of Mind." Accompanied only by keyboard, Ms. Lord sings of a desire for the Lord to guide her in the morning, help her to grow throughout the day, and to give her peace at the close of day. A fitting ending to a collection of songs that, while they don't necessarily mention God overtly, certainly speak through a Christian worldview.
Ms. Lord has a pleasant alto voice that fits in comfortably with this music. Perhaps too comfortably as there is nothing here that really stands out, that would cause one to step back and take notice. The songs have a bit of a "dated" feel to them, reminding me a bit of late 80s CCM (2nd Chapter of Acts, Kelly Willard, Honeytree). It would be nice to hear a bit more power behind some of these tunes.
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