...named from the quote "Writing about music is like dancing about architecture, it's a really stupid thing to want to do", attributed variously to Elvis Costello, Brian Eno and I think Eleanor Roosevelt.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Not Really about Taylor Swift
I'm certainly not the demographic that Taylor Swift is aiming for, but having actually never heard TS before (yes, I live in a cave that doesn't have access to the internet), I was curious about her latest album, her daring dive into pop. Lots and lots of hooks here, but for me (again, not intended to be for me), it's like a Twitter version of an album: short hooks, repeated (re-tweeted) a LOT. What I was most curious about was the collaboration on one track with Imogen Heap.
Imogen Heap first came to my attention via her band Frou Frou, who had a song on the soundtrack to the film "Golden State". I've described her before as 'Bjork Lite', and in fact, she's worked with Bjork. What I like most about her work is that even though it's piled high with synthesized sound, there's a warmth to it, especially in her voice.
I was slightly disappointed with the Swift/Heap Collaboration (now there's a band name for you!). Missing for me was the warm vocal sound and instead we get what currently rules the charts -- reedy, thin voices dwarfed by oppressive production glitz. (Yeah, I know -- this isn't meant for you, Grandpa).
So I wondered if maybe I'd mis-remembered the Frou Frou album and on listening again, it might not hold up.. Well I'm pleased to report that for me, it holds up very well. I like every track, and there are at least 5 that I like A LOT.
Funny how out of step it is with the current charts. Who would have guessed that a 2002 album would be Old School?
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