Bright Morning Stars

Some might say that the three singers who now comprise The Wailin’ Jennys aren’t the same group of women who started out in Winnepeg, Canada, nearly a decade ago, but they’ve actually only switched out one player (twice), and these Jennys are still wailin’ in the same vein. This album is, to my mind, their best yet. The trio currently consists of Heather Masse with founding members Ruth Moody and Nicky Mehta, and they do themselves proud here. This is a gorgeous set of songs. The title track will make the hair stand up on your arms, tapping into the deep well of magic music sometimes plumbs. The vocal harmonies are soaring, and they’re flawless. Some albums seem promising at first listening but quickly turn dull. Bright Morning Stars, however, rewards repeat visits. This is one of those rare albums that keeps getting better the more you listen to it. In addition to the title track, “Storm Comin’” is one of the best of a very good lot here. For those who aren’t likely to hear real angel voices up yonder, the Wailin’ Jennys may be as close as you’re ever going to get.