Album Review of
Distant Song

Written by Joe Ross
April 16, 2018 - 12:00am EDT
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"Distant Song” is a project of reflective music featuring the lyrics and vocals of Fred Farell set to relaxing music of Dave Liebman and Richie Beirach. The vocalist’s jazz journey began in New Jersey and New York in the 1970s. He met and studied with pianist/composer Beirach who encouraged him to write lyrics and become familiar with the early compositions of Dave Liebman (who plays saxophone and recorder on this album). Drawn to their music and improvisations, Farell’s storylines began to take root and bloom. Despite a 40-year hiatus from the jazz community after a spiritual awakening, Farell has now rekindled his creative vision to record his lyrics and expressive baritone with the other musicians’ early compositions. Two instrumentals are also offered. On this dreamy, meditative album, the lyrics are poetic and tap the writer’s inner soul, thoughts and feelings. The pensive musical impressions of Liebman and Beirach emphasize timeless radiance and soothing calm. As with life, there are some somber and introspective moments in the journey.  (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)