A Free Man

Lisa Cerbone’s got a great story. She’s a Maryland mother and teacher who’s been quietly making folk inspired records since the 90’s. She records her music in those moments clutched from the rigors of full-time motherhood. I tend to only feature artists on A Free Man that I can heartily endorse. While I can’t do that, as a relatively recent father I felt such empathy for Cerbone that I reckon she deserves some attention.

From the opening notes of her latest record, the first thing that strikes you is Cerbone’s voice. To use the local parlance, it’s like Vegemite - you’ll either love it or hate it. She sings with a quirky soprano that I found charming in its apparent fragility. Reminiscent of a slightly more refined Joanna Newsom or a tamer Joni Mitchell, Cerbone’s voice - however you feel about it - demands your attention as the album progresses.

A voice like Cerbone’s works best when on its own or accompanied by sparse acoustic instruments. One of the failings of “We Were All Together” is Frank Marchand’s production, which often detracts from Cerbone’s biggest asset with a messy ambient pastiche. I’d go so far to say that the production and recording nearly ruins a pretty respectable effort.

Lyrically, her songs are well constructed and while I’m not personally compelled by her words, I recognize their abstract subtelty. For me, Cerbone’s music comes up a bit short. A Free Man gives “We Were All Together” 3 of 5 stars. Have a listen, though, and make your own decision.

MP3: Lisa Cerbone - “Tiny Patch Of Earth”
MP3: Lisa Cerbone - “Change The Ending”

Lisa Cerbone’s fourth LP “We Were All Together” is available from .

Popularity: 19% [?]