Author: Claus Müller

American jazz singer and producer Lyn Stanley, born in Tacoma, Washington, began her music career in 2013. As the producer of her albums, she sets the highest audiophile standards for the entire production process and employs experts such as Al Schmitt, Steve Genewick, Allen Sides, and mastering legend Bernie Grundman. Lyn Stanley decided to record the audio signal on an analog Ampex tape machine connected to a NEVE console in addition to the digital recording of her eleventh album, Tribute to 1924. That was an excellent idea!

The song selection refers to early representatives of the Great American Songbook, the collection of outstanding American songs from the early 20th century that have become jazz and pop standards. Their trademarks are catchy melodies and appealing lyrics.

The music on Tribute to 1924 is interpreted in a modern way by the band and comes “dusted off” from the album. Some songs have been given a Latin rhythm, while others have been given a bluesy touch. In some cases, the tempo has been changed. There are shifts from ballad style to up-tempo jazz. The result is a very exciting and varied mix!

Lyn Stanley presents the elegant interpretations with musical passion. She strikes a balance between integrating herself into the band and still acting as the front woman. She succeeds brilliantly in creating an appealing atmosphere.

Everything about the production of the album is perfect: the first-class band with piano, bass, guitar, drums, percussion, tenor saxophone, and harmonica was expertly miked and recorded. The sound is springy, casual, natural, and clear, completely detached from any limitations. The bass has perfect contour, which I consider extremely important: it is present but not thickened. The stage is excellently represented between the speakers, allowing the musicians to be precisely located. Allen Sides was responsible for the recording and mixing, and Bernie Grundman for the mastering.

The master tape copy, released by SEPEA audio, is flawless. The tape is record-breakingly low in noise. The eight-page booklet is printed in high gloss and contains lots of information about the album as well as photos of the band members. The stylish reel design is by Lyn Stanley.

With this analog-produced master tape copy, you become part of the recording, part of the studio. It is a lesson in the art of recording and performance. It is incredibly well done, serves as a reference in every respect for me, and receives the HIGHLIGHT award.

Translated from German with DeepL.com (free version)