Category: mixed media

listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2007 – 10: Paramore – Riot!

by  •  • 0 Comments

I can’t believe it. We have made it to the top ten. Holy musical countdown Batman! Only nine more to go, kids!

Now, let’s get to my number 10 selection, the AMAZING second album by the pop/rock outfit Paramore, Riot!.Paramore fall into that category of groups that I had never heard of, but because they were mentioned somewhere, I felt compelled to check them out; and I have to say, I have damn good instincts. From the first energetic riff on their CD Riot!,and throughout the rest of the disc, Paramore take on the pop/punk/emo scene, and perform a fucking SHOW. Seriously, if you can sit still, and not want to jump up and down and have a good time listening to this record, you should probably check to make sure that you have a pulse.

This CD is not only a fantastic example of music done right, but it is also a breath of fresh air from an up and coming artist; it doesn’t surprise me that Paramore were nominated in the Best New Artist category for this year’s Grammys. They have spunk, attitude, flavor, and a kick ass sound that really bring the whole “emo-pop-punk-rock” music scene to a head. Fronted by an energetic female vocalist, these kids are doing what some of those other similar male fronted rock bands dream of; making the music fun at the same time they are making it good.

I have to say, that I only had to listen to this CD one time, before I knew it would be on my year end list; it is a solid disc throughout every song. There are a couple of songs that you could label as “ballads”, but even those have a backbone, and don’t mumble their feelings to you. This is one of those records that I can put on, and if I am in a foul mood, my feelings instantly change for the better; Paramore really now how to control their sound and make energetic and fantastic rock music.

Another thing that I LOVE about this CD, is that there are more than a few songs that you can literally just listen to on repeat, because they are so good. Take their most current single, Crushcrushcrush for instance; the first time I heard that song, I played it a good eight time in a row, and I still can’t get enough of it. Paramore really gets under your skin on Riot!, and they force you to have a great time, by bringing a great rock album for your ears to enjoy. This is a group that you should definitely keep an eye on, because they are going to be HUGE.

Favorites from Riot!,
crushcrushcrush
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/paramore-crushcrushcrush.mp3]
Born for This
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/paramore-bornforthis.mp3]
Hallelujah
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/paramore-hallelujah.mp3]
Misery Business, When It Rains, and For a Pessimist I’m Pretty Optimistic.

Rating:

listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2007 – 11: Annie Lennox – Songs of Mass Destruction

by  •  • 0 Comments

I can’t believe I am posting so late today; but it has been a busy day, being it is the last working day before Christmas break. Either way, let’s get to today’s amazing selection, okay?

In at number 11 on this year’s list, is the fourth solo album by the amazing Scottish diva, Annie Lennox, entitled Songs of Mass Destruction.Being a fan of Annie Lennox for as long as I can remember definitely plays into how much I enjoyed this record, but even without a prior following, this record is totally brilliant. Annie comes back to us after her last raw effort, Bare, and this time, she has something that has been bugging her, and somethings that she needs to get off of her chest. She is clearly upset with the way things are going in the world with regards to war, poverty, AIDS, and women’s rights, and as such, these topics permeate many of the heartfelt songs on Songs of Mass Destruction.

Annie has always really struck me as such a diva, because of her amazing, and unique voice; if you hear it, you would instantly know that it was her singing. The power in her vocals is impressive, and shines on each and every track on this record. Like her solo albums of the past, Annie has the ability to make some show stopping songs, and pummel you with anthems that will certainly tug at your heartstrings. I am always amazed at how emotional she can be, and portray that completely with her voice.

Overall, the album is a beautiful, and strong effort from Annie; many are calling it her best solo album. I can’t ignore the amazing songs from her first and third albums, but I am inclined to say that this album is definitely something that Annie Lennox should be proud of; there isn’t a dull song in the bunch, and every song really says something, and portrays such meaning and feeling in a way that only Annie does it. To listen to this record is to really listen to a weathered and talented musician really make music, and it is a great sound to behold.

I must admit that I was super excited when I heard that Annie was releasing a record this year, and I had a feeling that it would end up on my best of list. Low and behold, it lived up to my expectations, and totally delivered the goods; this record is amazing… and as such, here it sits near the top of my list.

Favorites from Songs of Mass Destruction:
Smithereens
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/annielen-smithereens.mp3]
Through the Glass Darkly
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/annielen-throughtheglassdarkly.mp3]
Lost
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/annielen-lost.mp3]
Dark Road, and Sing (follow those links for youtube goodness).

Rating:

listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2007 – 12: The Bird and The Bee – The Bird and The Bee

by  •  • 2 Comments

In at number 12 on my year end list, is the self titled debut record by The Bird & The Bee.This is one of those records that you listen to, and think, well, isn’t this just a swell record? You get images of Wally and the Beav, and think about picnics in the park on a quaint 60s afternoon… and then you listen to the lyrics. You quickly realize that underneath those airy, sweet, and innocent vocals, Inara Gorge is telling you like it is; and that often includes lyrics about violence, irritations in her life, and of course fucked up boyfriends.

Definitely an indie record, The Bird and The Bee is one of those records that are unique, mainly because they are doing their own thing, and doing it well. I remember checking them out after hearing several people speak highly of them, and now I see why they continually say such great things about this great band. They utilize electro-pop sounds, and traditional elements like tambourines and organ sounds, and the sound they create is both beautiful and mesmerizing. It would be a perfect soundtrack for a little coffee shop, where you would go and listen to poetry readings and enjoy a nice chai tea and maybe a slice of nice carrot cake. This CD is a light-hearted retro experience, but at the same time it’s fresh and new, and it works. It’s almost like a really great dessert; but one that isn’t so sweet that it overwhelms you. Instead, it gives you the sweetness and happiness you desire, leaving you feeling refreshed and full.

With the airy sweetness of Inara’s voice, I am slightly reminded of Imogen Heap’s Frou Frou CD, but I still think that it is unique in and of itself. What hooked me, and keeps me coming back again and again, is that the Bird and The Bee really do have this thing that makes you happy when you listen; it is a really great album. It is quirky, fun, retro, and again, fresh at the same time. The fun lyrical decisions also make this CD a great time from beginning to end; often times, with interesting surprises.

The only thing that I think could have made this CD better, is if they would have included the songs from the fantastic EP that they released recently called Please Clap Your Hands.Those songs compliment the debut album, and really show that they are moving forward with making their own great music; for which I am grateful to have discovered. Specifically, one of the songs on that EP (Polite Dance Song; go see the video of this great song!) epitomizes what I think of when I think of The Bird and The Bee; there is a politeness and properness to them, but just under the surface, they just want to hang out, have a good time, and maybe even get laid like everyone else. The EP, just like the record, is really, really good; and should be considered highly when one considers this record being on my best of list for 2007 (if you follow the amazon links, you will see that you can get both for less than $15; that’s totally the price of one CD!).

This is definitely great listening, from beginning to end; and I have to ask, who doesn’t want an enjoyable, and lighthearted listening experience? Well, I know that I do! I just hope I can see them in concert at some point in the future; I have heard they are just as amazing in person.

Favorite songs from The Bird & The Bee:
I Hate Camera
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/thebirdandbee-ihatecamera.mp3]
I’m a Broken Heart
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/thebirdandbee-imabrokenheart.mp3]
Fucking Boyfriend
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/thebirdandbee-fuckingbf.mp3]
Preparedness, and Spark.

Rating:

listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion, well?

a(nother) quick note about the list

by  •  • 0 Comments

Just a quick word, to let you guys know that as we whittle our way down to the end, each record’s place is chosen based on how much I enjoy it from here on out. That’s how it works with those records rated a perfect 5 stars on my scale; they will be listed by how much I enjoy them (meaning that the number one will be my number one record of the year). I felt the need to clarify, because someone asked me how I could say a record was flawless, and it not be my number one. Basically, if I rate something a 5 out of 5, then by definition, there really isn’t anything that I would say is bad about the record; it is in essence, pretty much near-perfect. However, I do enjoy some amazing/near-perfect albums more than others, and as such, those would rank higher on my list. That makes sense, right?

I hope that you are enjoying the list, as it has caused me a little stress trying to “rank” all of these amazing albums. However, I feel fairly confident that I have nailed down the list order from here on out, to truly and accurately reflect my ranking of each record by how much I enjoy it, and as such, but how amazing it is.

Finally, if there is something that you want to see in the next twelve days, SPEAK UP; it’s never too late for me to incorporate (or ignore… HA!) suggestions. I hope that everyone is enjoying the countdown, and I hope that everyone has found something to listen to that they enjoy. Today’s selection is coming shortly, so stay tuned!!

listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2007 – 13: Amy Winehouse – Back to Black

by  •  • 5 Comments

Now here is an album that no doubt will be in most of the “best of” album lists this year, and the reason is simple, it is a flawless record. There is no denying it; Amy Winehouse is an amazingly talented artist, and her retro-smoky voice is just the best thing to happen to hip-hop infused jazz in a long time. Couple her raw talent with top notch production, and hot as hell songs like Rehab and Tears Dry on Their Own, and you are bound to have a winner; and that is exactly what Back to Blackis.

There really isn’t anything negative to say about this record, because it is pretty much flawless. The use of jazz elements, and the layering of dancable beats from the 50s and 60s is sheer brilliance, and cannot be ignored. Amy channels some of the great jazz songs, and with her powerhouse voice, creates the perfect soundtrack for a late night smoky jazz club; one that I would LOVE to attend.

It is clear that the rest of the world is listening to her, and are being impressed as well; just look at how many Grammys Amy Winehouse is nominated for! Seriously, when I first heard Rehab, I was blown away, but I thought to myself, self, she is probably too good for the US to take notice; but as it turns out, I was wrong. I am glad that I was wrong about this one; Amy is too great for her UK citizenship to keep her from being loved on this side of the pond.

Overall, the main thing that should be said about this record, is that if you have been waiting for whatever reason to give it a chance, you are definitely missing out on one of the biggest phenomenons to happen in music in 2007 (and even part of 2006 in the UK). Amy surely has her own “Shirley Bassey” thing going, and it is a feast for the ears, and a soundtrack for the dance floor.

With all of the praise I can lavish upon this record, I can’t help but also say this: I hope that she can pull her rapidly descending life together, so that we can see if she can turn this raw talent into a well deserved long career in music. I would caution, that there be no more drugs Amy, and no more drinking binges; just give us the gift that you were so gracious to share with us on this record – the music! I can’t help but fear that what we are seeing is another tragic example of how such talent can literally drive someone to the grave (Janis Joplin comes to mind when I think of Amy); and I really hope that she can pull it together before it goes that far.

Favorites from Back to Black:
Tears Dry On Their Own
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/amyw-tearsdry.mp3]
Me & Mr Jones
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/amyw-meandmrjones.mp3]
Back To Black (not the infamous live version… sigh)
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/amyw-backtoblack.mp3]
Rehab, You Know I’m No Good, and Love is a Losing Game (links are to youtube goodness).

Rating:

listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2007 – 14: Kaiser Chiefs – Yours Truly, Angry Mob

by  •  • 5 Comments

I am sure that more than a few of you are surprised by this next pick, the Kaiser Chief’s second album, Yours Truly, Angry Mob.I will admit that I didn’t expect their album to strike me in quite the way it did when I first heard the single Ruby, but after a few listens, I had to pick up the album. Upon my initial listen, I was not only impressed, but I was surprised at how much they reminded me of Blur, who happen to be one of my all time favorite groups. Admittedly, they aren’t always as quirky as Blur can be, but they definitely have similar rock sensibilities that made me fall so deeply in love with Blur.

The best thing about the Kaiser Chiefs album, is they really channel this indie-punk rock that gets you into the music, and has you bobbing your head from beginning to end. They give you fantastic performance after performance, and most of these songs are so catchy, that they will definitely get stuck in your head. On this record, the Kaiser Chiefs are doing something similar to what other indie-punk type bands like Bloc Party, the Killers, and Modest Mouse are also currently doing; but their sound has a more raw, street-ready quality to it. It also definitely borrows a pinch or two from the sound of older punk rockers like the Ramones, but takes that sound, and makes it a little more punk-glam.

Overall, this record was a huge, and well received, surprise for me. I am definitely a fan of rock and roll, and I am even more of a sucker for a killer guitar riff. As I said before, it was the single Ruby that brought me to the table, but the upbeat rhythms, and passionate performance from the charismatic front man (who is definitely the hotness) really got me hooked. This record more than satisfies my appetite for something rock, and as I mentioned before, gives me a little bit of a Blur fix as well (seriously, Try Your Best sounds like it should have been on Leisure, my favorite Blur album – except KC sink the riff from Ruby in there, and bring the record full circle… brilliant.). Some of the songs, like My Kind of Guy, have a quality that would put them solidly in the quirky column with Blur, but they take it back to the rock with that killer riff (seriously, that riff is amazing; I can’t listen to that song and not get all “air guitar” while I am listening).

After falling in love with this CD, I went out and got their debut as well, which I will say that I don’t like as much, but I think that it is because I like Yours Truly, Angry Mob so freaking much. As a fan of British bands, and rock and roll, I can definitely say that the Kaiser Chiefs are one of the bands that are doing it right; as I am not really a fan of those other three that I mentioned earlier (British or not). There is something that they have got that is different, and whatever it is, I love it. This is a really, really great CD; there is absolutely nothing bad I can say about it.

Also, make sure you get the extra tracks, specifically From The Neck Down; which really shows that these guys have a sense of humor.

Favorite tracks from Yours Truly, Angry Mob:
My Kind Of Guy
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/kc-mykindofguy.mp3]
The Angry Mob
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/kc-theangrymob.mp3]
Everything Is Average Nowadays
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/kc-everythingisaverage.mp3]
Ruby, Learnt My Lesson Well, and Loves Not A Competition (But I’m Winning). (links on songs are youtube videos)

Rating:

listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2007 – 15: Shayne Ward – Breathless

by  •  • 2 Comments

Appearing as the final four star rated album of this year, Shayne Ward’s newest CD Breathlessmakes the second time Shayne has made my year end list. His new CD makes this year’s list for much the same reason his debut did last year; but there is something distinctly different about his new record. The difference, is that his new album is much better than his debut was; mainly because of the over-reliance on covers on his debut. While I am a fan of a cover song done correctly (No Promises was a great cover from Shayne), too many covers just seems like wasted potential; because this guy can really sing, and it really begs you to wonder why the producers behind him don’t give him the opportunity to sing some “original” stuff that he could truly make his own. Fortunately, that is exactly what he gets to do this time around, and the result is an album chock full of polished pop anthems, ballads, and club ready dance tracks.

There is no denying that some of my draw to Shayne has to do with his appearance, because the boy is, how do they say, “damn fine”? However, a friend of mine recently asked me if I would still like him if he sang as amazingly as he does, but looked like Barry Manilow; and honestly, I can say that I would still love the guy. His voice is very beautiful, and he can hit high notes that I bet would make even Mariah go “wow”. He is definitely a great singer if nothing else; he too was a product of the ubiquitous “tv singing competition”, where he was plucked from obscurity on the UK’s X-Factor. Since his discovery, however, Shayne has transformed into a sexy star, who really could give Justin Timberlake a run for his money; he’s got talented producers backing him, who know what to do with his sexy, and powerful voice. On Breathless, they have given him an entire album of hits, and it really goes to show, that sometimes, pop music should be perfectly polished and produced, because that’s when you get the best stuff.

As far as this album goes, there is really only one song that I really don’t care for (which is the only reason for the 4 star rating), and that isn’t because of the occasionally trite lyrics, or the presence of down right sugary, sappy songs; both which will no doubt make many question why I chose this record for my year end best of list. Yet, here’s what I have to say to that: in order to love a record like this one, you have to go into it knowing that it will be comprised of ballads about the boy getting the girl, and sometimes un-listenable lines in otherwise great pop songs. This is not meant to be groundbreaking “indie-cred” music. It’s music that you can dance to, enjoy, and feel good about.

On Breathless,Shayne sings his heart out, and these things that many would call “faults” are easy to let slide; which you’ll do when you experience the amazing voice on this kid. When you couple that amazing voice with his brooding looks, it becomes obvious (at least for me) that it is more than enough to make anyone swoon, and I will definitely say that I swoon like crazy when I listen to this record. I can’t help but imagine that Shayne is singing these love songs to me, and for me, it is easy to forgive a silly sentiment here and there.

As far as the style of the songs, and whether or not this record is for you, I would say that if you liked the songs that were chosen for him on his first record, and you too would have rather seen far less covers; then this record is for you. They also give him the opportunity to channel some retro-pop sounds from George Michael’s hay day, as well as a few sexy club numbers, which serve well in leveling out the amount of sappiness those loves songs inevitably bring with them. This is one of those records that I can listen to, and feel good about; and I will readily admit, that it doesn’t hurt to have a picture of the man in front of me when I listen, in order to increase my enjoyment of the whole package that is Shayne Ward.

Favorites from Breathless:(I seriously love all of these!)
Breathless
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/sw-breathless.mp3]
U Got Me So
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/sw-ugotmeso.mp3]
You Make Me Wish
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/sw-youmakemewish.mp3]
No U Hang Up, and If That’s Okay With You.

Rating:

(the album cover comes from uhlikethat.com, as it is vastly superior to the actual one.)

concerts, listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2007 – 16: Nicole Atkins – Neptune City

by  •  • 1 Comment

Nicole Atkins was an amazingly unexpected, but fantastic, discovery for me. I went to see one of my favorite girl groups, The Pipettes, in concert, and after a not-so-great opening act, they announced that the next opening act would be Nicole Atkins. I had never heard of her before that moment, but that would quickly change, and I am thankful that it did.

After she took the stage, and her melancholy lyrics, haunting vocals, and guitar-driven pop filled the room, I instantly found something in her that I really, really liked. Both my friend Stu and I remarked about how good she was; both in her performance, and in her sound. Nicole is one of those artists that a lot of people may not have heard about; but for those that have, she is an amazingly talented artist. There is this very “old” quality to her sometimes child-like voice, and the sadness she pours into her lyrics, take you to a deep place; but the peppering of lighthearted moments in this music keep you from falling to the bottom of an ocean of sadness. As Nicole said during the concert, which I felt was totally appropriate, the lyrics may be a little depressing, but the music is something you can dance to. She takes her aching feelings, and layers them with wrenching guitars, and spiraling and subtle beats; only to occasionally surprise you with an almost “upbeat” or “optimistic” feeling chorus. Song after song, she entices you with her amazingly child-like (yet worn-around-the-edges), and huge voice; and the result is something beautiful and moving. It is a hauntingly beautiful album.

The way that Nicole controls the stage is echoed on her CD, Neptune City,in a more polished form. She has some stories to tell, and you really get the sense that she has been around and unfortunately, has had some love and loss. I think that the slight raspy quality of her voice really allows you to feel the ache that she feels. I also love how she often borders on dramatics in her vocal play, and the effect really gives you sense of drama, love, and loss; all while keeping you entertained and enthralled by her performance. All of this “depressing” nature is still, however, kept upbeat by her rock-and-roll sensibilities, and the result is one of those records that you fall for, and love throughout (as I did). Nicole is definitely a fantastic artist, and this CD stands out among the others that I have loved this year. The only reason that it didn’t land amongst the top records of the year for me, unfortunately, is because I found out about it so late in the year (it came out at the end of October), and I haven’t had enough time to truly explore and enjoy the intricate nuances of Nicole’s sound.

This is one of those CDs that require you to spend some quality time with it, in order to truly love it as much as it needs to be loved (like the Shins and Rilo Kiley’s CDs for me, I had to spend time with both of them to truly appreciate them). While I definitely loved it upon the first listen, I know that this is one of those CDs that gets better with time, and my love for it will grow over time. Overall, there really isn’t anything bad I can say about this album, this is an amazing album from an amazing artist, and one that I will continue to love for a long time to come. I’m just glad that I discovered the amazingness that is Nicole Atkins, and can pass my love such an amazing talent along to you.

Favorites from Neptune City:
Kill The Headlights
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1116_headlights.mp3]
Brooklyn’s On Fire!
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/na-brooklynsonfire.mp3]
Neptune City
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/na-neptunecity.mp3]
War Torn, and Party’s Over.

Rating:

listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2007 – 17: Sugababes – Change

by  •  • 2 Comments

Perhaps they named their new record Changebecause of the fact that it is technically the first record they have done with newcomer, Amelle, but whatever the motivation, the record, in my opinion, is a hit. The Sugababes, for all of you in the States that haven’t a clue who they are, are one of the most successful UK pop acts over the past nine years, and they don’t seem to be slowing up. In fact, with the release of Change, I think they have gone past having a few hits, and a few number one singles, to a bona fide girl group capable of delivering an album that demands recognition.

On Change,the girls bring more of their throaty and smoky vocals to pop track after pop track, and get you dancing from the very beginning. If you doubt the greatness of this album, just look at the performance it has had on the UK charts; it shot straight to number one, giving them their second number one album. There’s no denying that these girls have got it going on in their homeland, but with this record, I think that they have given us something that more than likely, would provide a great crossover, enabling them to come to this side of the pond. Almost all of the songs on Change are radio-worthy, and with their take on pop, which is both refreshing and fantastically desired by those like me that are tired of most of what America tries to push off as pop, the Sugababes are just proving that they have the goods to go with their powerhouse voices.

Twinged with slick and savvy R&B, filled with beats that would burn up a smaller, more intimate dancefloor, as well as a ballad or two sprinkled in for good measure, Change is an album that is enjoyable from beginning to end. My only complaint about this record, which is the ONLY thing that prevented it from receiving a full 5 star rating, is the awful song Back Down; which not only feels awkwardly tacked on to the album, but really seems more like something Destiny’s Child would cover, and not the Sugababes. Perhaps if Mutya was still in the group it would have fit, but since she isn’t, it doesn’t. If they would have left this off of the record, it would have been perfect; but alas, they did not, and as such, I have to skip it every time it threatens to come on.

That being said, there are some AMAZING singles on this album, and apparently, they know it; they are releasing them one by one. First About You Now, and then the amazing Change (which I featured in one of my 5SFs a while back); which is definitely one of the best singles of the year. If this record is truly indicative of a “change” for the Sugababes, I can’t wait to see what comes next, so far, the change is stellar, and one that has me (and apparently, those in the UK as well) paying close attention; even though I was already a fan!

Favorites from Change:
Change
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/sb-change.mp3]
Surprise
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/fsf_1026_surprise.mp3]
Mended By You
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/sb-mendedbyyou.mp3]
About You Now, and Back When.

Rating:

listen up!, mixed media, music musings, music suggestion

the 31 best of 2007 – 18: Brandi Carlile – The Story

by  •  • 3 Comments

Propelled by a powerful, rock infused cover that identifies the record’s namesake, The Story,by Brandi Carlile, represents itself as what it truly is: a magnificently orchestrated album. Comparison to the Indigo Girls is unavoidable, so it’s best to get it out of the way right away. That similarity is even present on the record, where Brandi teams up with them on the song Canonball. However, despite the strong similarities, The Story is a great indication that Brandi definitely can carry herself nicely as a solo artist. Brandi brings an impassioned performance on The Story, that reverberates right through you every time her voice cracks at the height of her song’s emotion. There is no doubt, after listening to Brandi perform on this record, that she is passionate about the music she is making; it is clear and refreshing to hear in her performance.

One of the things that I like best about Brandi’s record, is that it brings a fresh rock, and occasionally, a country-western quality to that folk-driven rock sound that I love so much. She takes influences from the Indigo Girls (again, the comparison is not only unavoidable, but I think it works to her advantage), and layers on electric guitars and uses her voice as perhaps the most important instrument in her arsenal. Her voice is powerful, and full of passion. It has a smoky quality, like that of Bonnie Raitt, and even though this isn’t a live recording, you really can get the feeling that you are truly there seeing her perform right in front of you.

If you are a fan of folk-pop-rock, and if you are a fan of the Indigo Girls, you will LOVE Brandi Carlile; in fact, I think that is why I love her so much (I am a huge fan of the Indigo Girls). However, don’t write her off as a clone, it isn’t that she “copy’s” them, as much as she finds a corner of the genre where she works in her own intricacies; which really serve to make it her own. With her singular voice, and the layers in her sound, she carves out a little niche of her own, and even brings some surprises along for the ride. On one song in particular, Have You Ever, she harnesses a strong feeling of the Shins, and creates something beautiful. Another welcome surprise, is when she channels Dolly Parton to serenade you on Josephine, and the result is just as beautiful.

Overall, this is a fantastic album, and one that I have enjoyed getting to know this year. For whatever reason, this CD failed to break through to the top of my list, perhaps because of the feeling that the record starts to fade out a little after the halfway mark; but the album is still wonderful throughout.

Favorites from The Story:
Have You Ever
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/bc-haveyouever.mp3]
Turpentine
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/bc-turpentine.mp3]
Josephine
[audio:http://www.duanemoody.com/audio/bc-josephine.mp3]
Canonball, and The Story (links are for youtube action).

Rating: