In “Into the Music,” Canadian-born, Seattle-based jazz singer Heather Ward welcomes us into an opalescent sonic palette of heart, sophistication, and musicianship that flows together to form a flawless whole. The track is a highlight from her recent album, “Gilded & Silver,” a bright follow-up to her well-liked debut album, “Honeysweet.”
This is a transportive journey through one of the most frenzied periods in New York’s music history. “Into the Music” captures that sacred moment where a performer is lost in the music, and the listener can’t help but come along for the ride. There’s a soulful stillness to the way Heather phrases, the kind that’s lived-in and wise, but refreshingly intimate. Her voice occupies the rhythm.
The recording features stellar contributions from pianists John Hansen and Aidan Ward-Richter, who offer fresh reharmonizations on a few tunes. Moe Weisner and Shaina Ward Siegel, taking turns on bass, and Luca Cartner’s understated yet deep drumming, which forms the heart of the recording. Kate Olson, Jory Tindall, and Carey Rayburn’s rich horn work adds a burnished glow that elevates the arrangement into something classic while also being of the moment.
Taken into the studio and captured under the caring ear of Ben Lange at Lange Recording Studio and then brought to life in conjunction with old friend and long-term collaborator Dave Houghton, “Into the Music” is a song with a polished edge that never once sacrifices its heart. It’s the sort of song that breathes and it unwinds with the kind of ease that comes with being your second or third time around the block, never rushing, never overstaying, just living in the sweet spot between memories and newness.
Heather Ward has a gift not only for singing but also for connection. She brings us back to what it feels like to be fully present in a song, to get lost in the notes, and to return somewhat more grounded. This is jazz with depth, grace, and a quiet power that sticks in the mind long. On “Gilded & Silver,” and particularly on “Into the Music,” Heather Ward continues to step into one of her own in jazz, and it is warm and golden, sounding like no one else’s.
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