Cynthia G. Mason
Quitter's Claim (High Two)
By Rebekah Meek
Published: February 21st, 2007 | 10:15am
Cynthia G. Mason’s latest CD Quitter's Claim is an artfully crafted collection of quiet melodies. Part of the album was recorded in her apartment in Philadelphia and the intimacy of this setting shines through on her songs. It doesn't have the distant feel of songs recorded in a studio, far from the moment they were created. Instead it feels as if you've stumbled into a stranger's bedroom — uncovering secrets laid over a softly strummed acoustic guitar paired with a lilting harmonica. It's hushed, lyrical, and pure.
On first listen the songs sound familiar, but Cynthia G. Mason's sophisticated lyrics set her apart from other traditional female singer/songwriters. Love lost, stagnant relationships, and moments of moving on are told in metaphors of everyday moments. On "A Lifer Out for Good," she croons "Just as the drive was meant / To hold up some illusion of intent / It was the anecdote / Not the thing that drove me there," a nod to the realization that things aren't always what they seem at first glance. Quitter's Claim is just that, and it will grow on you with every listen.
Mason's sweet soliloquy may not be the next best thing, but it's definitely worth a listen.
Issue #35
Comments
Please login to be able to comment on this article.
more