Neko Case - Middle Cyclone

I have such a hard time writing good reviews of records, so I figured it'd be best to start with a tough one for me: Neko Case's Middle Cyclone. Upon first listen I wasn't too impressed, but as the weather has turned towards the sweaty side I'm beginning to feel the sultriness necessary to enjoy Neko's voice.

I initially kept several tracks because something told me they would grow on me. "This Tornado Loves You" is an obvious choice with it's frenetic pace and sweet side. "People Got a Lotta Nerve," while is a bit on the poppy side but the "man-eater" line sold it for me. I can remember years ago when a friend, who is consequently on PR staff at Neko's label Merge, used to send me provocative pictures of the songstress to anger me. Another gem is "Magpie in the Morning," which is a more traditional slow-mo emotional roller coaster. Her most apparent talent is to craft down-tempo songs with a desparation only a broken-hearted drunk can reveal and "I'm an Animal" is another example of this. The hits keep coming with "The Pharoahs," which is a reflective piece that makes me think of The Mummy Returns as it does the lonesome Southwest. "Red Tide" is the shining track on this album with it's foreboding beat and catchy, yet suspenseful, build to climax. I'd love to see her perform this one w/ Spoon as a backing band.

So, there you go! A first review and a positive one at that! Don't expect too many!

Sick of Critics!

That's it! I've had it! I can't read any more opinions about music. I should actually say lack of opinions. Everyone has been co-opted. By the labels, the venues, the stores, the websites, the bands, the glory, the power.

I'm taking this into my own hands. When I listen to a record or see a show-you'll get the straight line on it here. If no one reads it then fine, but if I can save one person a little time or even a little cash on a wasted record or better yet-send someone to the store on a mission to buy something, then I will have accomplished my goals here.

Enjoy!