Otherworldly is a good word to describe the debut album from British/Pakistani singer Bat for Lashes a.k.a. Natasha Khan. Moody soundscapes and a wide array of stringed instruments from violins to harpsichords to harps create a dramatic fantasy-land atmosphere. Her voice and general oddness evoke Bjork, although with more accessible songs. I have no idea what they're about lyrically--wizards, heaven, court jesters and even seals (see Feist) make an appearance.
Strong tracks "Horse and I" and "Trophy" lead the pack with dramatic almost theatrical touches of insistent harpsichord, marching drums, and hand claps. Khan's voice is pure and ethereal, also lending to the gothic atmosphere. Piano comes into play with the milder third track, "Tahiti."
The middle section includes the album's strongest tracks, such as "What's a Girl to Do," which pulses with prominent bass drums over (i think) harpsichord. "The Wizard"is another good one, albeit slinky and weird. Upbeat "Prescilla" features handclaps, stringed instruments, and piano.
The last three tracks are quite good too. Understated "Seal Jubilee" is a good contrast to the froth of most of the album, presenting a moody melancholy. "Sarah" opens with some space-age sound effects, has a good rhythmic vibe, and alternates between single and multi-voice vocal phrases. Final track "I Saw a Light" is a mellow piano-driven number that builds to a climactic middle.
The only tracks I don't really care for are "Sad Eyes," which is somewhat lackluster, and "The Bat's Mouth," which starts out well but gets too weird and cacophonous by the end.
Best: What's a Girl to Do, Prescilla, Sarah, Horse and I, Trophy, Seal Jubilee, The Wizard
1 comment:
You're not Tara. I know for a fact that she has only one job.
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