On her latest album, New Skin, Hudson Valley singer-songwriter Judy Kass explores moving through hard times without giving up hope.
Released to keen early response, New Skin debuted at No. 4 on the Folk Alliance International Top Albums Chart.
Talking about the album, Kass says, “‘New Skin’ is really about how we survive difficult seasons without losing ourselves. Every song looks at change from a different angle, whether it’s personal loss, social upheaval, relationships, or simply accepting that life rarely unfolds the way we expect. I wanted these songs to remind people that even when everything feels uncertain, hope remains something we can choose.”
The album was produced by respected folk musicians Mark Dann and Pat Wictor. It also includes collaborations with Sloan Wainwright, Glen Roethel, Dan Berggren, Jon Shain, and Kellie Lin Knott.
Kass has long paired her music with community work. In 2008, she founded MusicWorks, a program that gives talented students from low-income families in the Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow school district access to private lessons, mentoring, and performance opportunities.
Entry points on New Skin include “Thank the Stone,” featuring a creamy melody riding on a glittering acoustic guitar. Highlighted by glowing vocal harmonies, Kass’ voice conjures up suggestions of Joni Mitchell with its sumptuous tones.
An elegant piano underscores Kass’ poignant vocals on “You Are the Song,” a gorgeous tune dripping with gentle tenderness and poise. Inspired by the 2017 Women’s March, “Look at Us Marching Now” recalls the lush vocal harmonies of Peter, Paul, and Mary and the political engagement of Bob Dylan.
“Soothsayer,” a slinky collaboration with Glen Roethel features Kass’ GRAMMY®-nominated daughter Kyla Moscovich on trumpet. The lyrics approach the status quo of American politics from an oblique angle, at once witty and skeptical.
“At Our Best,” a song inspired by September 11, finds Kass at her best, parading her silky-smooth vocals accompanied by a gentle violin. Her phrasing is perfect; her inflections are wonderfully nuanced; and her tone control is exquisite.
A personal favorite because of its rolling, melodic flow, “Saving You” blends hints of Joni Mitchell and Judy Collins into a delicious folk song. Layered guitars form an intertwining stream of shimmering colors, while the bassline holds the rhythm in place.
New Skin is a remarkably cohesive album, full of charming melodies and evocative lyrics. Yet it’s Judy Kass’ voice that breathes life into the songs.
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