(Origin Records)

Singer Laura Antonioli latest effort is a thoroughly captivating tribute to the music of Joni Mitchell. On Songs of Shadows, Songs of Light , Antonioli paints an expansive sonic picture of works by the folk-pop music icon and one of her musical idols. Mitchell is a storyteller and Antonioli delivers her stories warmly and wonderfully. Arrangements by the singer as well as pianist -keyboardist Matt Clark, guitarist Dave Mac Nab, saxophonist Sheldon Brown, as well as the singer, contribute to the quality of the renditions. The outstanding musicianship also includes contributions from bassist John Shifflett and vocalist Theo Bleckmann. A really nice first class recording that requires listening.