Lily - Wendy Matthews

Sophomore album lily comes equipped with one exquisite, sure-fire hit ballad in "The Day You Went Away." The whispery, piano-driven song is so captivating that you're thankful for the disc-closing reprise in French. The rest of the album somewhat pales in comparison, despite the heavyweight backing of producer T-Bone Burnett, rhythm section Jon Farriss and Garry Beers of INXS, and keyboardist Booker T. (of M.G.'s fame). Matthews' voice is fervently velvet throughout, and there are several other good moments, notably the strong lyrics and Spanish guitar of "The Quiet Art of Standing Still," lilting melody of "Homecoming Song By Suzanna Castaway," and the more toothy pop of "Friday's Child." Elsewhere, the songs are mostly pleasant, if slight. ~ Roch Parisien, All Music Guide