Marcia Ball’s fingers spark a party when they touch the keys. Shine Bright is a revel in tough times, the 2018 Texas State Musician of the Year as ever digging into her New Orleans roots for rousing grooves and anthemic declarations. Sax blasts against her incomparable piano boogies, but her vocal range constraints remain and the lyrics scan as an afterthought to the rollicking music. Molly Ivins’ hellraiser “Pots and Pans” serves as a timely standout alongside a cover of Ray Charles’ “What Would I Do Without You.”

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This article appears in June 29 • 2018.

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Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.