The gorgeous standard Stardust ponders a love that is far away in time and place, yet remains close to the heart, embodied by song.  “My stardust melody, the memory of love’s refrain.”  To some people, songs are so important that they can’t be separated from the rest of life.  Maud Hixson, it would seem, is one of those people.  Her rich and reverent vocal delivery is so natural and well-informed, and her utter lack of gimmickry is so tasteful, that “real life” rings out in every song – from blissful to melancholy.  On her CD being released at the AQ, Love’s Refrain, Maud is accompanied by the equally-tasteful, and emotionally tuneful, Rick Carlson on piano.  Just the two of them, and a satchel full of great songs like “Lucky To Be Me,” “Meet Me at No Special Place,” “Lotus Blossom,” and, of course, “Stardust.”  It’s an intimate and moving affair that promises to make for a touching live experience.