neko case, known mostly for her work with the new pornographers, also releases fantastic alt-country/singer-songwriter material under her own name. her most prominent asset (aside from her gorgeous red locks) is her mesmerizing voice, and it's on full display here:
If Neko Case isn't the reigning queen if alt. country, I don't know who is. Employing The Sadies, Calexico, and Giant Sand's Howe Gelb, Neko's self-produced fourth solo album is a certain ambiance shift from her last traditional covers laden release The Tigers Have Spoken, despite maintaining the animal imagery. Fox Confessor rides a heavier dark and sombre vibe with Case's lyrics apparently waking up from the disillusionment of the Hollywood propagated notion of some rewardingly presented all encompassing love that's crammed down our throats from a young age (though I don't understand how anyone could believe Jennifer Lopez is even capable of loving anyone besides herself). While legions of accountants and secretaries flock to the banal, unchallenging likes of Jack Johnson, Case wraps her singer-songwriter roots folk vocals and vision around country, twisting it to accept everything from moody psychedelic rock to eloquent orch-pop. The brilliant symphony of a household’s mental downfall, "Dirty Knife" exhibits all the best qualities of where she’s at now. Move aside, Wilco. It's Neko's turn now.
2006.
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