Description
Jane Siberry – Hush – Compact Disc
Hush is an album by Canadian singer-songwriter Jane Siberry, released in 2000. Known for her eclectic style and ethereal voice, Jane Siberry has carved out a niche as a unique and innovative artist. Hush is a departure from her previous albums, focusing on a collection of traditional folk songs, spirituals, and lullabies, reinterpreted with Siberry’s distinctive artistic touch. The album showcases her ability to take well-known melodies and infuse them with a sense of intimacy and transcendence.
By the time “Hush” was released, Jane Siberry had already established herself as an artist with a penchant for blending pop, folk, and experimental music. Her previous works, such as “The Walking” (1988) and “When I Was a Boy” (1993), displayed her willingness to explore complex themes and unconventional arrangements. “Hush” represents a more stripped-down approach, focusing on simplicity and emotional resonance. The album reflects Siberry’s deep connection to the material and her desire to create a meditative and reflective listening experience.
Hush features a selection of traditional songs and spirituals, with Siberry’s arrangements highlighting the emotional depth and timeless quality of the material.
“Jacob’s Ladder” – A traditional spiritual, “Jacob’s Ladder” is interpreted with a gentle, atmospheric arrangement. Siberry’s delicate vocals bring a sense of peace and reverence to the song, making it a serene opener for the album.
“Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” – One of the most famous African American spirituals, this track is given a sparse, haunting treatment by Siberry. Her voice floats over minimal instrumentation, emphasizing the song’s themes of hope and redemption.
“The Water Is Wide” – A traditional folk song with roots in both British and American music, “The Water Is Wide” is rendered with tender emotion by Siberry. The arrangement is simple, allowing the beauty of the melody and lyrics to shine through.
“All Through the Night” – This Welsh lullaby is given a warm, soothing interpretation by Siberry. Her gentle delivery and the soft, lullaby-like arrangement create a sense of comfort and calm.
“Streets of Laredo” – Also known as “The Cowboy’s Lament,” this traditional American ballad is presented with a haunting, reflective tone. Siberry’s interpretation captures the melancholy and wistfulness of the song.
“Annie Laurie” – A Scottish folk song that has been cherished for centuries, “Annie Laurie” is performed with a delicate arrangement that highlights Siberry’s vocal purity and the song’s romantic, nostalgic qualities.
“False False Fly” – A lesser-known traditional song, “False False Fly” is delivered with a minimalist arrangement, focusing on Siberry’s expressive vocals. The song’s themes of betrayal and sorrow are conveyed with deep emotion.
“When I Was a Little Girl” – This track, which reflects on childhood innocence and memory, is performed with a sense of tenderness and longing. The simplicity of the arrangement complements the song’s introspective lyrics.
“The Huron Carol” – A Canadian Christmas carol, “The Huron Carol” is sung in a manner that evokes the spirituality and reverence of the season. Siberry’s interpretation respects the song’s origins while adding her own ethereal touch.
“O Shenandoah” – A beloved American folk song, “O Shenandoah” is performed with a sense of longing and nostalgia. Siberry’s voice, clear and emotive, brings out the timeless beauty of the melody.
Hush is characterized by its simplicity and emotional depth. The album focuses on traditional songs that have been passed down through generations, with themes of love, loss, hope, and spirituality. Siberry’s interpretations are marked by a reverence for the material, but she also brings her own unique perspective to each song, often using minimal instrumentation to highlight the emotional core of the music.
The production is sparse, with an emphasis on Siberry’s vocals, which are often accompanied by subtle, ambient arrangements. The album has a meditative quality, inviting listeners to reflect on the universal themes presented in the songs. Siberry’s approach to these traditional pieces is both respectful and innovative, making them feel fresh while preserving their timeless appeal.
Hush was well-received by critics and fans who appreciated Siberry’s delicate touch and her ability to breathe new life into traditional songs. The album was praised for its introspective nature and the emotional resonance of Siberry’s interpretations. While it may not have been a commercial blockbuster, “Hush” has been recognized as a significant work in Siberry’s discography, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
Hush stands as a testament to Jane Siberry’s ability to interpret and transform traditional music. The album offers a deeply personal and reflective listening experience, inviting listeners to engage with these timeless songs in a new way. For fans of Siberry and those who appreciate folk and traditional music, Hush is a valuable addition to any collection, highlighting the enduring power of these songs and Siberry’s skill as a vocalist and interpreter.
The album remains a cherished part of Siberry’s body of work, illustrating her commitment to exploring the emotional and spiritual dimensions of music. Hush continues to resonate with listeners who seek solace, reflection, and connection through music.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Jacob’s Ladder
All Through The Night
Pontchartrain
Streets Of Laredo
As I Roved Out
False False Fly
The Water Is Wide
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
Ol’ Man River
O Shenandoah – Sail Away
