 ELE_K*
Self-titled CD
Sinistresound
Genres: indie pop, folk-pop, dream pop
Mar 22 - 28 2004 |
ELE_K* is the pseudonym of Montreal-based singer Elizabeth
Powell, solo artist and former member of trip-hop outfit Doppelganger.
This self-titled disc is her debut album using the ELE_K*
moniker, and hopefully it won't be her last. Though these eleven
songs are far from perfect, they do showcase Powell's beautiful
voice and sensible songwriting style. Though occasionally her
melodies aren't as effective as one would like, she frequently hits
the right notes. The first tune, "Lazy Love," is a
perfect example - its pretty background is complimented by ELE_K*'s
lush, cute voice. It's the type of tune that could really become
a hit if given the chance. "Smaller & Smaller,"
which follows, is also nice but not quite as infectious. Amidst all the great songs, however, there are a few duds.
"Ballade," for example, is a very beautiful tune - but it
sounds too much like a Bjork imitation. "Got a
Call," on the other hand, fails to show off any particularly
infectious hooks - despite its enjoyable atmosphere.
Even though it has its shortcomings, this album is remarkably
entertaining.
As far as female-led, blissful indie-folk goes, ELE_K*'s debut
is among the best. I'm sure I'll listen to this more than a few
times.
86%
Matt Shimmer
[Vitals: 12 tracks, distributed by Fusion
III, released 2003] |
