For her thirteenth studio recording, the woman named by NPR “The Empress of the Unexpected” has created yet another unique concept album. This time, it’s An American In Havana, a collection of original songs written during Susan Werner’s recent travels to Cuba. Featuring performances and arrangements by legendary Cuban percussionist Mayra Casales (Dizzy Gillespie, Tito Puente), the record blends the pulsing rhythms of Cuban music with Werner’s trademark wry, poetic lyrics.
Werner’s songs have been covered by Tom Jones and Michael Feinstein among others, and she is composer/ lyricist of the forthcoming Broadway production “Bull Durham, The Musical.” With An American In Havana, she confirms her reputation as, in the words of the Chicago Tribune, “one of the most innovative songwriters working today.”
“Werner, a clever songwriter and engaging performer, brings literacy and wit” back to popular song. —The New Yorker
“When it comes to crafting a song, Ms. Werner’s only peers are Jimmy”Webb and Paul Simon. —No Depression
