Album Notes

It's an unexpected combination: Smoky vocals, jazz styles ranging from scat to big band - and lyrics about Jesus, the Bible, and living every day like you're serious about being a Christian. That's what you'll find on Karen Grant's CD "Perfect Bliss."

A New Orleans native who still lives and performs regularly in the area, Karen's roots come through in "Perfect Bliss." With 14 songs and over an hour of music, it's a hefty project, showing off a wide repertoire.

The title track sets an easy pace, as Karen sings about focusing on God, the friendship and guidance He shows daily, and His presence. A scat section is an unexpected twist to this piece.

But just about any flavor of music you might like can be found here. The first song, "Fellowship," has an urban feel. Karen points out that you can bring God into whatever you do: "Fellowship everywhere, in your car or on the street, with a brother or sister you might meet....Christ's Body isn't just a meeting space....If real worship is what you do, then you will worship the whole week through."

"Deliverance" is a catchy pop tune that will leave toes tapping and the words "Deliverance feels so good" in your mind.

"He Is The One" is a strong reminder that worship is a part of the Christian's daily life. It tells the story of Jesus, simple and solid: "He is the Father, He is the Son, He is the Spirit, He is the One." Another worship song, "We Invite You," does just that: "Let Your presence be made known, as we worship You alone."

Two novelty tunes punctuate the CD. "Me And You" is a wedding song; Karen sang it to her husband at their wedding reception. "Cleo's Lullaby (Heavenly Holy Dreams)" is the actual lullaby Karen sang to her daughter as a small child. Both songs show that the jazz style fits anywhere.

"Perfect Bliss" ends on a high note: "His Eye Is On The Sparrow," the only cover on the project. You've never heard it arranged this way before: a big-band style that is reminiscent of Karen's hometown.

Everything else on "Perfect Bliss" is original, written by Karen and produced by New Orleans jazz saxophonist Reggie Murray. Reggie's careful craftsmanship and Karen's vocals come together to produce an exhilarating experience.

Karen would be the first to tell you that true "perfect bliss" comes from God, not from this or any CD. But if there were such a thing as "perfect bliss" from hearing music, this project would deliver just that.