Jenn LindsayCountry of origin:U.S. Type of music generally:Contemporary folk, folk/rock Status:Most recent release, Allora Eccola (2014) See also:Jenn Linsday's site Comparisons:An Ani Difranco comparison is inevitable. Jenn Lindsay is a kind of cross between early Ani Difranco and early Jewel before the success of Pieces of You created a monster. There are some Barbara Manning-like touches. Lyrically she sometimes reminds me a little of Regina Spektor. (Neile) Covers/own material:Own General comments:Just when I start to think that I just don't like contemporary folk anymore, someone like Jenn Lindsay comes along. She got a nice, versatile voice, excellent lively creative songwriting and smart, sharp lyrics. Rocking, folky, political. My faith is restored. I gather she's part of the New York Anti-folk crowd. More power to them! (Neile) Recommended first album:Any Recordings:
Gotta LottaRelease info:2002—No Evil Star Records Availability:See Jenn Lindsay's site Ecto priority:Highly recommended Group members:Jenn Lindsay—acoustic guitar, vocals, paiano, bongo drums, plastic wrap, egg shaker Guest artists:Casey Holford—12-string, vocals Produced by:Jenn Lindsay and Major Matt Mason USA Comments:This is a witty, energetic collection of songs and both Jenn Lindsay's vocals and the tunes are exceptionally appealing. My favourites here are "Olly Olly Oxen Free" and "I Am Not Going Home Yet", but I like this whole collection. Recommended. (Neile) Uphill Both WaysRelease info:2005—No Evil Star Records—NES 1006 Availability:See Jenn Lindsay's site Ecto priority:Highly recommended Group members:Jenn Lindsay—vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, banjo, mandolin, piano. keys, baritone ukele, harmonica, tambourine, granny smith appke sounds Guest artists:Bryant Moore—drums, bass Produced by:Jenn Lindsay and Major Matt Mason Comments:From the rocking, punkish "brain" to the story song of "in brooklyn" to the nostalgic love song "i knew you" to her acoustic-guitar-only accompanied version of "The House of the Rising Sun" "destroyed by rising floods" to the raw challenge of the lost-love song "kitchen sink", Jenn Lindsay shows who she is a master of folk/rock. This is an impressive album in its range and its ability to show strength wherever it stands, claiming its ground. Recommended for all lovers of folkrock and powerful folk. (Neile) A for Effort (2008)Release info:2008—No Evil Star Records—NES 1008 Availability:See Jenn Lindsay's site Ecto priority:Highly recommended Group members:Jenn Lindsay—vocals, guitar, banjo, mandolin, drums, keyboard, xylophone, harmonica, percussion Guest artists:Bryan Moore—drums, bass Produced by:Jenn Lindsay Comments:This starts off with the poppy rebellion of "i am breaking up with you"—a lively indie pop tune. How can you not smile at disingenuous lines like "I am too awesome for you." "Kinda guy" follows in that vein, though the topic is about getting together. "Drag" is lower-key, indie-bluesy in mood, but it quickly gets lively again with "choose me back" and "paper", two of my favourites on this disc. While "no foul, no harm" deals with god, I think, most of the album is about relationships, like "second wind" and "the land of bad ideas." "Breakthrough" has an early Liz Phair-like sound at times. "Supposed to", "feel not more", and "catnip and kryptonite" are all charming and upbeat—though also poignant. The lyrics are always smart. "Reasons to quit" is particularly witty and pointed. Much of this feels very Lois-like, very DIY, home-grown and honest—but also clever. (Neile). |
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