Jessica Baliff Untitled
Kranky krank054 October 21st 2002
By Russell Garwood
Jessica Baliffs third album for Kranky, entitled Jessica Baliff or Untitled (the decision is left up to us) is, like many bands on the labels roster, on the minimalistic side. The subtle use of electronics augments bleary acoustic guitar backings and Jessicas intimate crooning, while the sound of sitars, occasional piano, violin-uke and tin-whistle add variety and prevent monotony. The music can be best described as experimental folk-rock, but there are elements which bring to mind early goth and the 80s 4AD roster, dream-pop, and even bands like Love Spirals Downwards. Despite the eclecticism of her sound, this album demonstrates Baliffs ability to write cohesively where many would have great difficulty.. Despite a large variety of influences, the music clearly stems from a single creative source and all diverse elements feel as though they belong.
Unlike some bands and genres, the minimalistic style of Untitled only serves to highlight Jessica Baliffs emotive melodies and the inherent feeling in her songs. Of the nine songs on this album, standouts have to be the intimate Time Is An Echo, The Thief for its dirge-like negativity, the relaxed acoustic soundscapes of Swallowed, and a dreamy, personal song, The Hiding Place. Overall this is an excellently produced, well-written album which demonstrates admirably how much can be conveyed with such minimalistic music. Untitled is definitely one for all fans of laid back, acoustic music, and many others besides.
Kranky krank054 October 21st 2002
By Russell Garwood
Jessica Baliffs third album for Kranky, entitled Jessica Baliff or Untitled (the decision is left up to us) is, like many bands on the labels roster, on the minimalistic side. The subtle use of electronics augments bleary acoustic guitar backings and Jessicas intimate crooning, while the sound of sitars, occasional piano, violin-uke and tin-whistle add variety and prevent monotony. The music can be best described as experimental folk-rock, but there are elements which bring to mind early goth and the 80s 4AD roster, dream-pop, and even bands like Love Spirals Downwards. Despite the eclecticism of her sound, this album demonstrates Baliffs ability to write cohesively where many would have great difficulty.. Despite a large variety of influences, the music clearly stems from a single creative source and all diverse elements feel as though they belong.
Unlike some bands and genres, the minimalistic style of Untitled only serves to highlight Jessica Baliffs emotive melodies and the inherent feeling in her songs. Of the nine songs on this album, standouts have to be the intimate Time Is An Echo, The Thief for its dirge-like negativity, the relaxed acoustic soundscapes of Swallowed, and a dreamy, personal song, The Hiding Place. Overall this is an excellently produced, well-written album which demonstrates admirably how much can be conveyed with such minimalistic music. Untitled is definitely one for all fans of laid back, acoustic music, and many others besides.
