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
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