U.I. Blue is basically two main people Jon Paul Davis (who writes the music and most lyrics) and Laura Lindstrom (who sings). The songs are mainly sung by Laura but Jon provides a counter balance to her with some French vocals. Oh and they are also married to each other. After several listens of their debut, Songbird’s Cry, I found it to be quite beautiful and romantic hybrid of folk, pop and progressive music.
Joining Jon and Laura are fellow citizens of Tennessee, Glass Hammer’s Steve Babb and Fred Schendel. Fred played keyboards, Mellotron, guitars, elbow, bass, drums and percussion. Steve also played keyboards and other effects. Other guest artists sang backing vocals and played bass, and some to play violin, viola & cello which adds that romantic texture to the music.
I must admit there’s not a bad song on the album and very hard to pick a favorite but the two that stand-out to me the most are Mad Keys and Songbird’s Cry, part 2. These two songs, in my opinion, can be called the signature UI Blue sound. Now I know some noticed that the two main people in Glass Hammer are involved. Well depending on your point of view, they are in no way involved in the writing and lyric process. They’re just on board to help flesh out the visions of Jon and Laura. And that’s a good thing in my book!
This is one of the rare bands that I’ve come across that I can’t recommend enough. It has something for everyone into symphonic progressive rock as well as modern folk music. It’s really the perfect album for the progger and non proggers alike. I can’t wait for more from UI Blue!
Reviewed by Ron Fuchs on August 9th, 2005
