A New Album for You All to Check Out...

[foxyluva]

Originally Posted by sparky

I got the record yesterday and have listened to it about 4 times. It is still sinking in, but I have to say that it is probably not as good as Whole New You or A Few Small Repairs (tough to be as that one is a masterpiece).

There are some great songs, most notable the title track, "Tuff Kid," "The Bird," and "So Good To See You". Since Leventhal is producing, there are the typical subtle textures, seamless atmosphere, and the occasional odd instrument. What's missing is the edge she had in the last two records. Her greatest strength lies in creating an irony between her lyrics and the actual sound of the songs. These songs are a bit low on the anger, resentment, and danger present in her best efforts. The contrast between the foreboding and the pretty has always served her very well. The whole thing could do with 2 or 3 more uptempo numbers. Overall, it's a pretty low key, mid tempo to slow affair. It's all stunningly well crafted and written. Evidently, she is not in as dark a place right now, and I say good for her. The songs, however, could have benefitted from a little more drama. Real or imagined.

Thanks for the review dude. I have to disagree on one point though - I personally prefer this album to "A Whole New You", but you are right, no where near on the level of "A Few Small Repairs"....

[sparky]

Originally Posted by foxyluva

Thanks for the review dude. I have to disagree on one point though - I personally prefer this album to "A Whole New You", but you are right, no where near on the level of "A Few Small Repairs"....

I will have to listen to WNY again to be sure. But I still vividly remember the first time listened to it. I was riveted instantly and even played a few of the tracks over and over I liked them so much ("Another Plane Went Down," "A Matter of Minutes," and "Bound To You," come to mind). I was on a long drive to Sonoma and when I got done listening to it, I started it all over again. That was how much it hit me. Didn't happen with the new one. We'll see. I just hauled it out and am gonna go up to the pool and listen to it.

[foxyluva]

"Cinnamon Road" is awesome

[foxyluva]

Ooh, and that cover of "Words" is phenominal. What a great closer to the album...