Rating:
Genre:
Rock
Release Date: 01/19/1999
One of the few recognizable names on this two-CD compilation of Boston women songwriters, the ever solid
Patty Larkin starts things off with
"Angels Wings" from her 1997
Perishable Fruit. Never mind the fame factor, there are some talented ladies stepping up to contribute and benefit Respond Incorporated, a non-profit organization that assists battered women and children. Although
Aimee Mann is noticeably absent, check out
Jules Verdone, who sounds a good bit like her.
Kate Bush fans will appreciate the mandolin-infused jangle of
Merrie Amsterburg, while connoisseurs of straight-ahead
folk will find friends in
Lori McKenna,
Jess Klein, and
Mary Gauthier. And if
Catie Curtis is a favorite, listen closely. Not only does she toss in her own
"Do Unto Others," but she also produces and sings with
Linda Nawn and with
Jenny Reynolds, who pays the favor forward with harmonies behind
Respond producer
Charan Devereaux. That's the way it goes with much of this album.
Jennifer Kimball lends
"Veering From the Wave," the title track from her solo debut album, as well as an appearance with
Larkin. Perhaps styled after
Ani DiFranco,
Kris Delmhorst shines on
"Weatherman," then sits in on cello and backing vocals for
McKenna. Heck, even some of the support musicians can be heard on numerous tracks. Perhaps that helps keep the overall vibe as consistent as it is, though intermingling studio and live recordings makes the compilation's sonic quality a little uneven. To save the calm acoustics from falling into boring, check out
"Ghost in the House," a moody piece by
Laurie Geltman,
"Two Boats," a peppy number driven by the lilting voice of
Mary Lou Lord, and
"Sad Girl," by the alternatively inclined
Jen Trynin.
~Kelly McCartney, All Music Guide
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