Ep 2. Cassandra Wilson
- October 10, 2015
In season 41 episode 2 of Austin City Limits, the show features the multi-talented jazz singer, Cassandra Wilson. With her soulful rendition of jazz and blues, Wilson has been an influential artist in the industry for decades. The episode showcases her captivating performance on stage, giving the audience a glimpse of her musical journey over the years.
Opening the show, Wilson performs "Don't Explain" which sets the tone for the rest of the episode with its emotionally charged lyrics and soulful melody. She follows it up with "Run the Voodoo Down", a jazz classic that showcases her incredible vocal range. Wilson's band provides a beautifully composed background score and sharp percussion, giving a perfect balance to her powerful vocals.
Throughout the episode, the setlist reflects Wilson's diverse influences and musical style. With "The Weight", Wilson delivers a country-blues inspired performance that feels true to its original roots. "You Don't Know What Love Is" gives Wilson a chance to show off her vocal control, with her ability to convey the emotions of the song with just the tone of her voice.
One of the highlights of the episode is "Redbone," where Wilson channels her inner rockstar as she performs the song with raw energy and emotion. The band's powerful instrumentation perfectly complements Wilson's voice, adding a layer of rock-infused jazz to the mix.
As the episode progresses, Wilson shows her versatility as a musician. "Saddle Up My Pony" shows her ability to deliver a classic blues performance with ease, while "A Little Warm Death" is a mesmerizing love ballad that displays her remarkable songwriting skills.
Closing the episode, Wilson performs "Time After Time," a beautiful rendition of the classic jazz song. Wilson’s delicate voice and the band's haunting accompaniment perfectly capture the melancholic message of the song, leaving the audience with a lasting impression long after the episode ends.
The entire episode of Austin City Limits season 41 episode 2 featuring Cassandra Wilson is a stellar showcase of an artist's immense talent, musicianship and powerful voice. From jazz to country-blues to rock and everything in between, Wilson's mastery over her eclectic mix of music styles is undoubtedly one of the most captivating aspects of her performance. The episode is a must-watch for any jazz lover and a treat for any music enthusiast, with Wilson's incredible artistry on display for all to see.
