(23 October 2004) Soulful pop singer/songwriter Loni Pont has put together a touching and passionate debut CD called Pieces (Planet She Music (USA) PSM1, 2000). The eight tracks are all written by Loni and she presents an emotional and expressive musical collection of ballads.

Loni began her singing career in high school and later started vocal lessons with the Masterwork Choral foundation in Morristown, NJ and continued on to Berklee College of Music where she studied vocal performance. She eventually moved to NYC in order to further her musical ambitions and has performed in numerous locations including The Bitter End, The Living room, The Cutting Room, the C Note, CB's Gallery and the Knitting Factory. Her perserverence paid off when after making a three song demo, one of her songs, "Forever," received a merit award from the Unisong International Song Contest.

This talented artist exhibits great sensitivity with her lyrics. Her singing approach is subdued, yet it impacts the listener with its soothing, romantic, and inspirational style. Adding to the mood is some finely tuned instrumental accompaniment: Robbie Kondor on piano/keyboards, Jon Gordon and Larry Saltzman on guitars, Steve Dwire and Mark Egan on bass, Steve Dwire on drum programming, Carol Landon on viola, Chris Palmero on Hammond organ and Mike Brayton on accordion and background vocals.

Loni's melodies and lyrics have a haunting and thoughtful feel to them. Although her vocals often quiver and exude a folky air, she does have a clear tonal quality. Along with the simple piano accompaniment, the beautifully written and executed ballads continue to set the mood. Some favorite tracks on the album include the lyrical "Lyla" and the melodic "Empty." The title track, "Pieces," is a gentle and compassionate song.

The songs are certainly heartfelt and have a soothing quality. Sometimes the lyrics are a bit melancholy, but but Loni pulls at your heartstrings and touches on your emotions. She is currently working on a second CD and we await another listen to her distinct style and sound.