New CDs Have a Woman’s Touch
By Laurie Williams Sowby
Latter-day Saint women are among those whose singing and songwriting talents are moving into the spotlight. Their recordings are available wherever LDS music is sold. Here’s a sample.
Michelle Baer of Mesa, Ariz., a mother of six, has finally managed to record her second CD, “Never Give Up – Songs of Faith and Family” on the SDG Music label. An appealing mix of both her original songs and some favorite, familiar LDS standards, the new CD attests to the reasons Baer won the vocal award in the 2003 American Mothers contest.
Her music degree and experience as a soloist in musicals and “The Messiah” serve her well in this album that has special appeal for women. Nicely orchestrated and produced by Greg Hansen, the upbeat music draws listeners in. In Baer’s own words, “These songs bring a message that God really works miracles in our lives as we turn to him.” Hear selections from “Never Give Up” at www.MicheleBaermusic.com .
Lauri Carrigan, a Texas transplant to Sandy, Utah, presents her first CD with “Safety of His Arms,” an upbeat collection of original songs written with James Marsden. On the Tulip Tunes label, it’s a toe-tapping combination of Christian, pop, and country music, including a duet with mentor Thurl Bailey.
It was Carrigan’s intent to convey her own experience with overcoming post-partum depression through inspirational music. She’s managed many inspirational messages herself, with song titles like “He Knows You,” “Friendship Lane,” and, “Now is the Time.” For more about the CD, or to hear clips, visit www.LauriCarrigan.com .
Veteran LDS recording artist/award-winning songwriter Hilary Weeks shines again in her newest album, “Day of Praise,” from Shadow Mountain. Arrangements and keyboards by Kurt Bestor, Tyler Castleton, and John Hancock enhance Weeks’ gift for songwriting as well as performing what she’s written.
