It feels like a really long time ago when Luscious Jackson was a mega star in the indie world. The band had a string of great albums in the 1990s and then suddenly just went away. In 2000 the members of LJ decided to devote their time to starting or maintaining families and set the music aside despite all the success they had enjoyed. But, just like many who step away, the members are slowly returning to their love of music. The first of which is singer/songwriter Jill Cunniff. Jill returns with the album, City Beach, recorded in her studio in her home city, which is slated to hit shelves in late February from respected label, The Militia Group.

In my early listens to the album, I have a hard time separating it from the Luscious Jackson days, but it is really different. Thats not to say that those who were big LJ fans will feel neglected though. There are still some dance influenced samples and back beats to remind us of the LJ days, an example being a track like “Eye Candy.” However, I think there is a more mature Jill Cunniff that comes through on City Beach as well. With a Brazilian Pop edge that allows you to move it around a bit.

Im still getting a grip on this disc though, and expect my opinon’s to grow and mature as well through repeated listens. Here is a sample of two tracks from City Beach. Be sure to give the track, “Disconnection” a listen, as the legendary Emmylou Harris lends some vocals.

Jill Cunniff- Happy Warriors
Jill Cunniff – Disconnection (feat. Emmylou Harris)

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