Sologne

Today's Music of the Day is Loney, Dear's Sologne. I'm certain this album came to me via eMusic, due to my own curiosity as much as anything. No history lesson about the band today, so down to business.

This album is full of gentle drums and strings, with a singer that doesn't exactly warble but comes close to it. I'm not sure if the term 'easy listening' still exists, but sometimes this album seems to fit this label pretty well; other times, there's a little bit of frantic energy that suggests a different sound given a slightly different mindset. It's difficult to listen to this album and not picture the singer as being some kind of precocious child or perhaps even a pretty, pretty bird. The instruments generally stay out of his way, and the entire sound just kind of floats in the air.

While the light, delicate sound itself isn't necessarily a flaw, there isn't a real dynamic in most tracks. I don't believe this album lulled me to sleep, exactly, but the overall sound was just not engaging enough for me. It does have its moments - the haunting "Grekerna" is nice - but most songs just seem to be the aural equivalent of down pillows. The overall precious sound suggests that Sologne will likely have plenty of success, due to inclusion in the soundtrack of Julia Roberts movies and jewelry commercials. Okay, that was probably uncalled for, but I don't think I could recommend this album to most people. So, if your personality is diametric from my studied and contrary demeanor, maybe this album is your Christmas. Otherwise, maybe you should check out that Elvis Perkins album that I am so fond of.

In Other News:
why do short weeks feel the longest?

I'm trying to decide on some summer / fall concerts to see. Neko Case is the obvious choice, but I generally like to have some variety, and I did see her last fall...

Is there really a good reason to buy a digital TV when I barely watch the one I have now?