After being a Rilo Kiley fan for several years now, I have no explanation as to why I waited so long to get the lead singer's solo album when it was released earlier this year. Jenny Lewis and the Watson Twins' album Rabbit Fur Coat is deep, haunting, moving, honest. It's makes me realize why I love music.
Though I consider myself to be a feminist, ironically, I generally am not into girl singers. I attribute this to the content and mostly annoying, overdone sound of most female vocalists but this gal is no doubt an exception. From tension with God to the reality of humanity to love to family to life experience to philosophy, the depth and variety in which Lewis writes is impressive. This album has a definite old country yet alternative feel. I totally dig the Traveling Wilburys' cover of "Handle With Care" and the Ben Gibbard, Conor Oberst cameos make it even better. Anyway, enough of my lame album review. I just wanted to rant about some good music.
Here is a performance of "The Big Guns" from Dave Letterman in March. I'd like to hear some opinions and interpretations of the song. Who/what are the "Big Guns"? What is she fighting or advocating? I've got a few vague ideas.
For the few of you who have not heard this, enjoy.
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6 comments:
Yes, yes, yes.....I too LOVE this album. I am a huge fan of folky sounding, modern music and a sucker for a little acoustic guitar and three part harmony. I'd like to check out the Watson Twins music. I know they hooked up with Jenny Lewis specifically for this album.
I found this about the album and thought it was interesting:
******All Things Considered February 22, 2006
It's perhaps more than a coincidence that several of the songs on Jenny Lewis' debut solo album have references to God. But Lewis, who has recorded previously as the lead singer for the indie rock band Rilo Kiley, insists she didn't plan it that way.
The God references on the CD Rabbit Fur Coat come in songs including "Born Secular," "Rise Up with Fists!!" and "The Charging Sky."
"I didn't intend to write a bunch of songs about God," she says. "I was surprised when I had all of the songs completed and there were so many God references throughout. I guess that's what happens when you're about to turn 30... I think being broken-hearted is not the only thing you want to sing about."
Lewis is joined on the CD -- recorded on tape and other vintage equipment in a dusty Los Angeles studio -- by the gospel singers known as the Watson Twins, Death Cab for Cutie's Ben Gibbard and members of Maroon 5. ******
My favorite song on the album has to be Melt Your Heart.....it's like a valentine from your mother.
OK, well I have looked at your post several times, watched the video, and even started some comments. I think I know what it means to be a feminist these days, but I am wondering how similar our definitions are? Can you please expound on the matter for someone who is admittadly ignorant and lacking a vagina on their person. Again, I think that women's sufferage exists today (ie, it's still a man's world, especially in your field and in your degree - as we have discussed). Do women's suffereage and being a feminist coorolate? Finally, how is your sampling of Jenny Lewis and the Watson Twins at all alternative?
How's the job hunt?
Kyle
Catie- Thanks for the snippet on the album, interesting stuff. On “I didn’t intend to write a bunch of songs about God,” I guess sometimes you don’t realize the things that are stewing within until you write about them. She has written similar God songs with Rilo Kiley but not as prevalent. I think my running fav. on the album is Born Secular. It hurts so good.
Eddie, oh, Eddie-What chic are you a fan of? I couldn’t think of any. RK played a good live show so I assume the same would be true with this band. Yet, another show you missed. You would have liked the “I hold my tongue when I sing” band’s show too. But, what can I say? Duty calls.
Kyle- I realize there are extremes to any mindset or persuasion. I’m pretty much middle of the road on most things. So regarding feminism, I advocate equal rights and treatment as well as the empowerment of women to not let a male dominated society deter them from achieving their goals. Basically, using the vagina to the fullest proving it to be just as useful (if not more) than the penis. I couldn’t quite get the context of your reference to women’s suffrage. I regard it as the woman’s right to vote so yes, in that respect it is related to feminism (the pesky equality thing). You’ll have to explain further what you mean if you are referring to something else.
Regarding Lewis’ music. I guess I’d have to ask how do you define alternative? The music is certainly folksy, country and even gospel, but it does not stay entirely within these lines. Certain use of vocals, keyboard, percussion, and guitar lends itself to something not particular to any of these classifications hence it’s alternative. Plus, due to her prior work there is an appeal and association to the indie/rock genre.
Thanks for asking about the job hunting. It’s about the same. My job is looking for a job and I figured out you can get paid for this. It’s called unemployment. I’m hoping I won’t have to wait for it to kick in but at least we can have something coming in if nothing of promise comes up in the next few weeks.
Hey Eddie, what about Fiona Apple. "Never Is A Promise" - I still cry when I hear that song. Kyle.
Interesting selections, Eddie. I stand corrected but you know a woman is not more identifiable if you refer to what man she's with. I think you did that on purpose. BTW, it didn't get any worse than Kelly.
Hey...
none related to your post... which I watched :) Jim and I had a great time chatting tonight and hanging!! Thanks for the conversation :) Hopefully my voice comes back and that next week I am not struck down by another crazy thing at that house!
Stef
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