MOG

I first heard of Emilíana Torrini when she opened for someone (who amazingly (and probably tellingly) I can no longer remember) at a summer concert at what used to be known as Pine Knob. No one really pays much attention to the opening acts, but I distinctly remember Torrini drawing me in. I couldn't really tell you one specifc aspect that did it; I think it was everything put together.

Anyhow, I picked up Love in the Time of Science a short time after that and liked it. I wouldn't put it on any best albums of all time list, but it was certainly a solid offering. Fast forward a couple years and while I'm watching TV I hear a voice that I couldn't quite place, at least not until one of the songs off Love in the Time of Science came on my winamp later that night.

After a little research, I find out that she put out a new CD in 2005, Fisheman's Woman, and that it's even available for 6 bucks off of YourMusic. And so, predictably, I picked it up.

While both albums offer her fluttery, floating Icelandic voice and slightly eccentric lyrics...

Did you know that tuna fish Float up to the surface Belly to the moonlight just to cool down their heart down 'Cause it helps them just to think about the hurtful things I guess it's just one wait to get them some sedation

- Tuna Fish from Love in the Time of Science

His clothes on the floor Underwear silverlined The smell of lavender and tar Brings me down

-Thinking Out Loud from Fisherman's Woman

...the new cd is decidedly different from the first. Fisheman's Woman is decidedly somber, at least lyrically; but it's a relaxing somber and not at all sonically depressing. She is almost entirely accompanied by acoustic guitar which, while not obtrusive, is also not easily forgettable. If you listen carefully, you'll pick up on many minimalist sound effects (creeks and whispers) added to further relax the feel of the album.

Some will never get into an album like this. It's either too girly or too quiet or too slow (or all of the above). Imagine Norah Jones if she were to inhale a little helium and then record right as she drifted to sleep. If female vocalists or acoustical music are to your liking, definitely check out Fisherman's Woman. If you're a take it or leave it with this genre, still give it an honest 5-10 plays and see if you're left humming some of the hooks. I bet you'll be surprised.

...or think I'm a total sissy.

http://stupidinstereo.wordpress.com/2006/08/07/emiliana-torrini-fishermans-woman/