Joanna Newsom - Ys
I’d never heard of Joanna Newsom before this year and then all of a sudden she was receiving rave reviews and topping year end lists. While I found her album brilliant at times, it’s not the kind of CD I can see myself listening to much in the future. Her voice is incredible; there’s no questioning that. And the harp, backed by an orchestra is most definitely impressive. Yet despite this, it’s not for me. It’s like I can see this excellent record in the distance but something’s preventing me from getting close. This barrier is almost identical to the way I felt towards Sigur Ros. That was until I saw them live and had one of the best experiences of my life. This gives me feeling that I really need to see Joanna Newsom live before I'll fully appreciate her; Sean’s review only confirms this. Until then I guess I'll have to keep working away at the cd. I'm getting there, even if it is taking me a while.
MP3: Emily
4 comments:
Keep trying, this is a monumental album. I loved her first but this is so much better. Its funny that you like her voice, because most people who don't like her find her voice the stumbling block. I know what you mean about Sigur Ros, I admire their music but something keeps me at a distance. Having seen Joanna live recently, all I can say is her live show will convert you for life.
I had the same thought as Wayne...you've already scaled the mountain of her voice! It took me a while to appreciate and love her debut and it still took a few listens before Ys really sunk in with me. Keep trying!
oh yeah, and so far that's 4 of my Top 10 of 2006 on your 'bad' list.
Yay!
4? Is that all? I'm sure I could do better. But you see this exactly why I wanted to do this. Many of the albums that were universally loved; I didn't feel the same way. I couldn't just let that be left unsaid...even if it meant losing a bit of face. But what also must be remebered is that many of these albums I actually did like but just not as much as others. Also, if you saw the complete list of albums I didn't enjoy, you would probably find it much more agereable. I just happen to pick all your favourites to write about because the fact that I disliked them is more controversial and therefore more intersting.
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