Rondi Charleston - Signs of Life (2013)

Soulful, sultry singers are not created – they are born with that innate talent. This is just what Rondi Charleston is, what she possesses and what she expresses through her music. Her new collection, Signs Of Life, shows just how much she has grown by exposing the vocal powerhouse that her true fans know she commands. It is wonderful. Signs Of Life is by far an extraordinary album. So much of Charleston can be felt in it as each original composition has a story. It features expressive pieces, a mesmerizing mixture that encompasses a perfect marriage of singer and songwriter.

With Signs Of Life, Charleston eases into this role effortlessly. The LP features 10 selections and an additional bonus track. Quite a number of these are either written or co-written by Charleston. The album opens with “DNA.” In addition to Charleston’s priceless vocals it maintains a wicked tempo that’s wonderful. The title track offers a relaxed pace which fits impeccably for its title. It is evident that Charleston poured a lot into composing this tune. “The Cave Knows”, the bonus track, features music by Fred Hersch accompanying Charleston’s lyrics. It is originally from the film documentary No Place On Earth. Signs Of Life is an excellent jazz collection. It is utterly exceptional!!!

Rondi Charleston is a native of the Windy City. She grew up as an only daughter of a vocal teacher (mother) and English professor/Jazz pianist (father). Although music permeated her home as a child, she began a career in acting as a teen. She originally enrolled in Juilliard’s Theatre but after a few semesters she returned to her first love. In addition to Charleston being a professional singer and an accomplished actress, she has also worked as a Journalist. Her work for ABC News garnered her Emmy and Peabody awards.~The Birminghan Times

Personnel: Rondi Charleston (vocals); Dave Stryker (guitar); Brandon McCune (piano); Clarence Penn (drums); Mayra Casales (percussion).