To a New Wonderland
In my youth, I learned to express musically,
To pay homage to a vocal tradition before me.
I learned to let go in a vocal spree,
Frolicking and just being myself,
Whimsical, curious, in a music solidified in the moment that I received it;
And I feel blessed.

It has been a successful, soulful journey thus far.
From Arcadian bliss to the work of life,
Raising and supporting family in pursuit of a balanced existence,
I have learned much in this life chapter.

Mine is a daily journey as I worship the land that my soul rests upon.
Vocally exploring in performance spaces,
From recording studios and stages, small and large across the land,
I humble myself to honorable preacher chieftains.
Rise to the lectern vocal compatriots: Nina, Leon, Bessie, Abby, Bill, Oscar & Gil!
Oh, revolution!

I have “inherited the gift” Maestro John Hicks once told me,
A vocal priestess, joining those before me who inspire us all.
Hats off to you, musical gods of my lifetime!
I bow to you - Sarah, Dakota, Morgana, Cleo, Leontyne, Li’l Jimmy, Ella, Ray,Leon, Bessie, Billie, Aretha, Ethel, Carmen , Judy, Gladys, Betty,
And those unmentioned or yet unheard.
Righteous!

I have carved my vocal silhouette.
Now is my time of pleasure and reaffirmation.
I want to inspire new emerging artists from all vocal musical genres,
Wishing to give as I have received.
‘ Tis my hope to help the listener feel again.
Rise, consummate listener of vocal art;
Travel to places and spaces;
Let the ear and eye be transported;
Feel something in my musical renderings that is pure, warm and fluid;
Be hopeful and inspired!
Embrace a new wonderland.

May you live your life in peace.
Sing your song of inner peace.
Let the synergy protect you.
Journey through life’s reverie.
See the children running free
As they live their lives in peace.
With an ever growing wonder,
They survey life’s conscious stream.

Feel the pull of something new.
The horizon’s just ahead.
Take a chance, feel the surge of rebirth
And embark on a new wonderland.
Sing a love song, sing a song of faith.
It will strengthen you from the trials.

Carry a torch, just a drop of fire
To remove the doubts of tomorrow.
Open your eyes.
Behold that star.
It’s not too far.
Seek your horizon.
With one spark of hope
Celebrate your life.
Build a bright tomorrow.

See the glow of something new.
The horizon’s just ahead.
Take a chance, feel the surge of rebirth
Then embark on a new wonderland.
See the children running free
As they live their lives in peace.

With an ever growing wonder,
You'll survey life’s universe.

- by Jeri Brown

New Wonderland © Poem by Jeri Brown,
Recorded for Justin Time Records, 2006

Justin Time Records Upcoming Release

New Wonderland

Jeri Brown

Featuring Four New Tunes:

Dark Night of the Soul,

Let it Be Me,

New Wonderland,

and Fire Fly

"Jeri Brown has it all - adventurous spirit, superb musicianship, and technique to spare." - Fred Hersch

Spring has sprung, with a spring tour and a new CD from Jeri Brown. New Wonderland, Jeri's tenth CD for Justin Time Records, features a philosophical poetic sonnet penned by Ms. Brown to the inspired melody of pianist and composer Simon Sloutsker.
Jeri's esteemed collaborators have included such luminaries as Leon Thomas, Jimmy Rowles, Pierre Michelot, John Hicks, Fred Hersch, David Murray, Don Braden, Avery Sharpe and Cyrus Chestnut, all of whom are represented here. In addition to one selection from each of Jeri's previous nine recordings, there are four brand-new tracks on New Wonderland, each featuring Jeri's latest discovery Yves Pierre, whose deep, rich baritone voice is an ideal counterpart to Jeri Brown's virtuosic lead.
Come join the spring party as Jeri sweeps through with a loving message and a powerful jazz presentation.