Invitation
By Jenny Pixler
Jenny Pixler veritably burst onto the scene with Invitation, her first solo album. Familiar for her vocals on "Set Me As a Seal," from Matt Maher's Welcome to Life, and "Sacred Silence," from Live It!, she was a phenomenon waiting to happen. With this debut under her belt, it's official: she's one of the most promising new singer/songwriters in contemporary Catholic music.
Invitation can't be pigeonholed. Introspective and playful, devout and fun, the 11 songs feature an impressive range of musical styles, from rock, funk and R&B to pop, blues and folk. Long-time friend and mentor Tom Booth lent a helping hand, producing the album, writing two songs and co-writing three.
There's a story behind every song. "Be with Us, Mary," which closes the album, is a great example. Written when Jenny was just 16 and inspired by a prayer of Mother Teresa’s, this tender Appalachian-folk song features great parts for mandolin, mountain dulcimer and acoustic guitar.
"Have a Talk with God," Jenny's cover of the classic Stevie Wonder song, has an authentic groove. Thick with Hammond organ and harmonica, it affirms God's availability—and intimacy—through prayer. A plaintive piano ballad echoing Jeremiah, "The Call" reflects the hesitation every young Christian feels upon starting a vocation—or releasing a new album.
Showcasing her versatility, faith and pure, sweet voice, Invitation is a convincing debut and a golden opportunity to discover one of today's most talented new artists.