SIMPLE THINGS

Laura's latest project is the release of her first long awaited CD .... "SIMPLE THINGS". It has always been Laura's voice that her fans comment about and now finally she has been recorded! This collection of pensive and hauntingly beautiful songs have all been penned by Laura and show off her velvety and passionate voice. Laura also plays piano, congas, acoustic guitar and harmonica on the CD. A backing vocalist for others for many years, Laura uses her harmony skills to enhance her selections on this recording. "My Little House" and "Virginia" both highly requested live pieces are among the songs on "SIMPLE THINGS". The CD could be classified as pop/rock/folk and will be a favorite recording to listen to over and over.

Joe Passion has produced 11 of the 12 tracks (Karen Kane produced one as well), and also plays many instruments on the collection. Other performers include Alyssa Wright on cello, Dennis Pendrith on bass, Rob Piltch on guitars (Loreena McKennit) and Blake Manning (Kim Stockwood ) on drums and udu. Don't miss out on listening to this inspired, beautiful and thoughtful piece of work!

Selections on this recording include:

1. My Little House . .listen!wav (384k)or mp3 (60 K) , long mp3 (185 K)
2. Simple Things
3. Virgina . . . . . . . . . .listen!wav (384k)or mp3 (60 K) , long mp3 (174 K)
4. Angels
5. Dreams
6. Step Lightly
7. Tryin' To Grow Up
8. Speak To Me
9. Emily . . . . . . . . . . . listen!wav (384k)or mp3 (60 K) , long mp3 (168 K)
10. Forgive Me
11. Innocence
12. Walkaway

A new voice has been emerging over the past few years and it arrived at the Rivoli on Nov. 23rd. Laura Thomas debuted the songs from her new cd "Simple Things" and did so with grace and intensity. From the haunting "Virginia" to the simmering "Angels" she mesmerized the full house with honest songs that speak to the heart. No artifice here, only music sung with body and soul. Joe Passion, who produced the cd., led an ensemble of fine musicians including Rodney St. Amand (bass), Mitch Lewis (guitar, mandolin), Alyssa Wright (cello), and Blake Manning (drums,udu). The band played with the impeccable restraint and taste that allow a singer's voice and songs to shine. And shine they did. If you have a chance to catch Laura Thomas live, do so. Until then pick up "Simple Things" and spin.

- Ron Nigrini