Cinders in the Wind is great company for our times—Sara’s tinder-dry sense of humor is on full display in “The Great Smoky Mountains” and “Smoky Covid Cabin Fever Heat Wave Blues,” which somehow manage to be both cynical and celebratory. “Things I Never Knew” is a gorgeous and haunting love song, and “Stitches” is a paean to female friendship and healing. Sara’s not only a wordsmith, but a singular musician with a lovely voice. And, believe me, you’ve just got to hear “Fireman Jim,” the most fun a hope-filled lovelorn arsonist ever had. —Lisa T.
Beautiful and sometimes very funny songs—fresh and quirky. Great production, and the backing band is so enjoyable. I especially like “Death Is Gonna Kill Me.” —Sumishta B.
Your songs are a great gift to all.… They make my heart happy. —Marilyn H.
What a great collection of songs, great writing, super collaboration among all the players; many of these songs become melodies that thrum through the brain for hours, even in sleep (“Stitches” comes to mind). I particularly liked the writing (not to mention topicality) on “The Great Smoky Mountains” and “Smoky Covid Cabin Fever Heat Wave Blues.” Terrific. —Michael T.
Everything Sara touches turns to gold. Go listen! —Leslie J.
I expected your album to be good, well produced, and a pleasant listen, but I found it quite spectacular. What a great group of musicians you pulled together.… and so well recorded and mixed. My favorite was “Stitches,” how it was lifted up and driven along by those soaring piano arpeggios. Then, of course, “Fireman Jim,” right down to the little extra dog bark at the end.…great arrangements on them all. —John H.
Your cover is you, triumphantly coming out the other side of lockdowns and fire, creative force standing in full power. Was great to see and hear you put the pieces together over time. The songs are jewels. —Kathleen G.
Your album is soooo good! We stood in the kitchen by our little old CD player just stunned by how great the album is, your voice, the music and your lyrics. From hysterically funny to truly moving. —Sharon E.
Sara writes and sings straight from the heart. On her new album, Cinders in the Wind, she shares truth and beauty with love and wry humor. —Dan D.
I loved your music. The sounds take me to another place and time. —Denise H.
If you like smart, funny, soulful singer-songwriter musicians you should give this a listen. —Sarah G.
So awesome, Sara! Not sure what I love more: your humor in these great songs or your graphic design chops. Don’t make me choose! —Jen B.
You have such a unique style with everything—your writing, your phrasing and your voice. —Maggie F.
Your singing and guitar playing sound great, and the entire production and arrangements showcase your songs beautifully. I was especially moved by “Stitches.” —Ray B.
Your vocal delivery sounds like directions to the truth.…Love it! —Michael A.
The song “Stitches” is beautiful, its refrain in my head. The melody, lyrics, and performances are all perfect and tell the story in the very most poignant way. I love how your voices sound together, Caroline’s accent, the piano riffs—gorgeous. —Barbara G.
“Mousetrap Cheese” has been in my head for the past few days. Not sure how it got there, but it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere! Pretty good company, that song. —Bonnie S.
I listened for several days in a row, including all the way to Bodega Bay and most of the way back.…It is truly a great accomplishment. The songs are extremely well-written, with great musicianship in your backup. I really love the country sound. There is a great comedic sense and an underlying sensuality. —Bret L.
I cannot tell a lie. It’s a beautiful album. —Sim G.
Packed with inventive lyrics that hold up a mirror to our unique times. Fine musicianship and production to boot. I highly recommend you give Cinders in the Wind a spin. —Cap W.
What a sweet and tender record you made! Beautiful songs, great arrangements, superb musicianship, your voice in fine form. It needs to be heard by many. —Steven B.
