REVIEW

Lonie Walker
"Change Is Good"
By Mathias Böde

"Stereo" Magazine German Audiophile Highlights CD Review

PAY ATTENTION!!!

This artist's CD is offering exactly what 90 percent of Hi-Fi fans are looking for: a strikingly distinctive female voice, catchy compositions, and top class sound quality.

We are talking about Lonie Walker, whose impressive live album "All That I've got I Gave to Music" was reviewed in our December issue.

On that album Ms. Walker, star of Chicago's Underground Wonder Bar, performs cover versions of famous artists. On this recording, however, she wrote most of the 12 titles herself and they are AWESOME!

Starting from the beginning with the relaxed, jazz influenced "Living," moving to the bluesy, irresistible, mind and soul entering "I'll Drop my Pride," to the tender miniatures and explosive trips to the rock mŽtier, Lonie Walker rules the music. And she knows well which buttons to push for the maximum reaction. "Change is Good" highlights the wide appeal style of the band and astonishing arrangements and inventiveness of the pieces and makes for a driving listening adventure. This should be enjoyed at full volume because only then can the full dynamic powerful sound of the studio production with its energy, splendor, and colorfulness be fully appreciated.

The sound technique, with equipment noted in the booklet, can be classified natural and drive. That's good because we have enough iron heavy techniques everywhere else.

Above it all reigns Lonie Walker and her smoky voice, enriching her audience for the voice and music worshipped in audiophile circles.