In our growing world of digital media, the art of the album cover and booklet accompanying the music is slowly disappearing. This is not to say that music has any less value or quality today than before, but I fear the 2D world of visual art is losing a fantastic outlet. I have always enjoyed leafing through CD inserts, especially when lyrics and pictures are artfully interspersed throughout. My favorites have beautiful insights from the artists, some with explanations of their inspiration while others have heartfelt messages of thanks to producers, team members, family, listeners and God.
The most gorgeous message I have ever found in a CD booklet is from Melody Gardot's "My One and Only Thrill":
"[Love] to all who so gracefully and willingly crossed my path while making this record; you've helped me pin down a cloud. To the wordsmiths who filled my eager eyes with images to inspire and contemplate, to the rambling gypsies and vagabonds who sing joyous choruses on street corners and subways; you taught me the beauty of purpose, to the bent old alleyways of Paris and the crumbling cobblestones that lie forever nursing the banks of the Seine while holding a place for any lover's heart, to the strangers and the neighbors who showered a butterfly with warm sentiments from across foreign ponds, to the hours of darkness and the shades of gray that envelop the streets of Philadelphia and keep a cold death grip on the memory of better times, and to those who can't imagine who they are to me for words would never truly hold enough meaning, thank you. Above all, my hands go to the sky for the greatest thanks imaginable."
What dazzling poetry! Gratitude is often the most difficult emotion to express but Melody does it with such grace and vivacity.
Melody Gardot is, indeed, my favorite contemporary jazz vocalist. While many people find jazz dull, I love the raw emotion that drives each and every number. I hope you enjoy her song and her delightful words of thanks.
For more information about Melody Gardot, check out her music from the library or visit her website: http://www.melodygardot.com
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