Tracy Bonham
blink the brightest
(Zoe Records)

Tracy Bonham’s third CD, ‘blink the brightest,’ brings out her many talents. The singer-songwriter delivers a diverse album that incorporates classical, rock and folk influences. A classically trained violinist and pianist, Bonham also plays many of the other instruments on the CD, including guitar and vibes. One of the best songs is the ballad “Whether You Fall.” It’s largely a solo effort, with Bonham accompanying herself on piano and channeling the spirit of Laura Nyro. Throughout the CD, it’s Bonham’s lyrics that stand out. She’s mostly a tender poet, but with a bit of the acerbic girl from high school thrown in. “I smoked too much during my operation/I lied too much when I stood at the altar,” she sings in “Did I Sleep Through It All?” There are more good lines to be heard. - D. Kimura