Emi Meyer - Suitcase of Stones (2011)

Jazz pianist/vocalist Emi Meyer’s third studio album, “Suitcase of Stones,” has the artist singing in English again following last year’s all-Japanese outing “Passport.” The Kyoto-born Seattle native delivers a diverse range of jazz-, blues- and reggae-influenced original compositions in what has become her signature laid-back, smoky voice.

Mixed and mastered by Husky Huskolds, who has worked with the likes of Norah Jones and Yael Naim, Meyer’s new album proves how the 24-year-old has a gift for belting out warm, wistful songs with a hint of nostalgia. Coupled with the subtle lilt in her voice and restrained production, the album will be good company on a lazy, rainy day.