[rating=4.00]
Cover records seem to be catching on these days–just take a look at what Cat Power is doing. But for Allison Moorer, her new album, Mockingbird, is a little different. It features one original song written by Moorer (the title track), and 11 covers–all of which were written by female singer-songwriters. It’s an organized and beautiful project to honor the voices that have shaped Moorer’s career, and it delivers with seductive and passionate visions.
Produced by Buddy Miller (Emmylou Harris, Solomon Burke), Mockingbird gives you a consistent feeling that these are meaningful songs that Moorer believes in. Her smooth southern vocals give Nina Simone’s “I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl” sexy new life, while Gillian Welch’s “Revelator” is chosen to rock out. Even June Carter Cash’s “Ring of Fire” makes an appearance, and it reinforces what works for Moorer: uncovering the hidden female voice, and letting it loose to throw a few punches. A knockout, indeed.
