Heather Ward – Gilded & Silver
With her second album, “Gilded & Silver,” Heather Ward emerges as a mature jazz artist who has found her unique voice. The Canadian-born, Seattle-based vocalist makes a compelling artistic statement with this self-released album about her definitive transition to jazz, following years of eclectic musical and theatrical experience.
The album opens powerfully with “Into the Music,” a statement track that immediately draws the listener into Ward’s musical world. Her voice, clearly inspired by legends such as Sarah Vaughan and Dinah Washington, possesses a warm, rounded tone that radiates both intimacy and technical expertise. These influences are palpable without Ward ever falling into imitation—a pitfall that many young jazz vocalists encounter. The true strength of this album lies in Ward’s ability to translate songs from other genres into jazz convincingly. Her version of The Beatles’ “Dear Prudence” is a revelation—what was originally a folk-rock number receives a sensual, laid-back jazz treatment that illuminates the melodic beauty of Lennon-McCartney in an entirely new way. “Light Up My Room” by Barenaked Ladies and Peter Gabriel’s “Mercy Street” also undergo fascinating metamorphoses that underscore Ward’s interpretive qualities.
Particularly charming is her treatment of “He’s A Tramp” from Disney’s Lady and the Tramp. Ward brings just enough playfulness and irony to keep the number fresh, without losing the inherent jazz swing of the original. This demonstrates her ability to work with different moods and textures. “My Favorite Things a la Trane” is a direct homage to John Coltrane’s iconic interpretation, but Ward makes it completely her own. Her vocal improvisations showcase technical competence and musicality while respecting the essence of Coltrane’s revolutionary approach.
The album concludes beautifully with the jazz standard “I Can’t Give You Anything but Love,” where Ward pulls out all the stops. Her timing is impeccable, her dynamics refined, and her emotional connection to the lyrics genuinely felt. The production is clean and warm, with sufficient space for Ward’s voice to breathe. The accompanying musicians provide solid support without ever becoming intrusive, exactly as it should be in vocal jazz.
“Gilded & Silver” is the work of an artist who has found her artistic identity. Ward navigates effortlessly between different styles within the jazz spectrum, from intimate ballads to swinging uptempo numbers. Her musical upbringing—surrounded by choir directors, organists, and professional musicians—is audible in her refined musicality and natural sense of harmony. This album not only marks Heather’s complete transition to jazz but confirms her as a voice to watch. “Gilded & Silver” is a mature, polished work that will appeal to both jazz purists and broader audiences. An impressive achievement that raises high expectations for what’s to come. (6/10) (Heather Ward)
