Album Notes

Jeanne T. Arrigo is a Chicago-based singer/songwriter and actor, whose debut album, "The Journey’s About to Begin" – composed of 15 original songs blended into acoustic, soulful pop – was released in 2005.

The vision for this, her second, album came to Jeanne nearly fully-formed: She wanted to share her own, unique take on her favorite hymns and spirituals -- songs that are woven deep into the fabric of so many people’s lives, as well as her own. Also, she wanted to record a live concert, so that any listener could feel the joy and sorrow of the music as though they were physically present. The 20 songs on this 2-CD project also include one of Jeanne’s original, previously unrecorded songs (“I am Thankful”).

She met three of the players while they performed with her in a 2008 production of "Woody Guthrie’s American Song": Ben Harris (mandolin, guitar, ukulele, piano, vocals), Billy Oh (fiddle, vocals), and Shaun Whitley (string bass, violin, guitar, vocals). Rounding out the band is Jim O’Donnell on guitar and banjo; Roxie Imam on clarinet and recorder; Jeff Arrigo (Jeanne’s brother) as guest guitarist, vocalist, and harmonica-player; and guest pianist Elaine Clemens. The wealth of musicianship shared on this album is astounding, and it shows in each and every song.

The concert was held only months after her idea’s inception, at the open and affirming UCC church where Jeanne regularly worships and sings in the choir. Like all ideas that were meant to be, the project came together as if by magic (and with a lot of hard work by all involved!). It is now Jeanne’s true pleasure to share the fruits of this labor of love with you.



Reviewers from her previous album say:
"The strong emotions explored on Jeanne T. Arrigo's CD ring true thanks to her classic folk singer vocals and deft touch with lyrics..."
- Terrence Flamm, Illinois Entertainer
"Arrigo is startlingly straightforward, earnest and organic in her material, which is enlivened by a beautiful singing voice...sincerity and artistry..."
- Music Connection Magazine.