Mavis Staples
Livin’ on a High Note
(ANTI-/Epitaph Records)

If Mavis Staples is still unknown among people today, her most recent release, Livin’ on a High Note, will be a fitting and transcendent introduction to this timeless and talented singer. If Ms. Staples has done anything, it is the permanence she has carved out for herself in the music industry. Her endurance, however, is not the only contribution she has made to music. When the name Mavis Staples is mentioned during casual conversation, the volume of which people speak of her begins to grow and her name hovers above the conversation as people look up in awe and admiration. The music she has created over the years is the type of music that has influenced so many musicians today. Her transition from gospel to blues when she was younger had such lasting and influential effects on the genres. Musicians like Jeff Tweedy and Win Butler have credited her for her contributions and talent. With her latest release, Ms. Staples is still exploring her sound both vocally and lyrically. For instance, the song “Tomorrow” sees the hushed sounds of trumpets and harmonious back-up singers, but the candor and raspiness of Staples’ voice lingers with the listener long after the song has ended. It’s not too late for people that have not heard of Mavis Staples to begin listening to her now; if they want to have an honest musical experience, pick up Livin’ on a High Note. Just like she sings in her song “Action,” the listener has “Gotta put it into action/Until I set myself free.”