The third album by lyricist/vocalist Mancio and pianist/composer Broadbent confirms what I've known from the first hearing of their debut album Songbook (2017) via Quiet is the Star (2020) to A Story Left Untold (2025) - that I was in the presence of greatness.
Then and Now. Beautiful and sad. Lyrics you and I, probably everyone, can relate to served up on rich harmonies.
In the Afternoon. The time is right as Georgia sings of the changing season with appropriate piano from Alan. There may be some hidden meaning that I've missed. Don't matter, the words and the melody are meaningful ... spring brings life anew, and brings us elevated points of view.
From Me to You. Nothing to do with the Beatles song of the same name. No this is classier. It's uptempo, it swings and Ohm deals some fours on brushes. It's only when you listen closely to the lyric you realise that it's a conversation with a dearly departed loved one.
The Love I Left Behind (L'Amore Che Lascial). Partly sung in English and partly sung in Italian. Once again the words are filled with sadness and it's becoming apparent that this isn't a 'party album' and it's none the worse for that. The sadness is touching and says much for the writer and the pianist who combine to create the overall scene.
When the Time Has Come to Part. An enigmatic song with Cleyndert's bass effective over a Latin rhythm.
A Lark's Lament. A poignant song of hope. Once more Cleyndert plays a prominent part.
Same Old Moon. A metronome-busting tempo, Ohm cuts loose, Georgia finishes on a high note.
Still we can Dream. A jazz waltz, faster than the pundits of Strictly would expect but ideal for the song. Piano, bass and drums as one, voice integral, perfection is the word I'm looking for.
Heart of Hearts. Just when you thought an album couldn't be more beautiful along comes this! Piano and voice painting a thoughtful picture. Words to ponder over.
A Story Left Untold. From a previous collaboration that, inadvertently missed the cut. A 42 piece orchestra ensures we are left with a feeling of awe and wonder at the amalgam of words and voice and music that will linger as long as there are ears to listen.
For those of you who might ask if this is a chicken and egg situation the answer is that it isn't. Alan composes the melody and Georgia adds the lyric. As Alan says, my notes are meant to be sung. It's not for nothing I've taken to calling her Lady Byron!
Amen to that. Lance
A Story Left Untold is due to be released on May 5 and can be pre-ordered HERE.
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