Joanna Newsom.
Who? you might ask, in a smug, omniscient way. "well if i haven't heard of her she can't be much good?" you couldn't be more wrong. Yes she is quirky, left of centre and unlike anything you have ever heard before. Thankfully, she was recommended to me by an irresisitble source with whom i hit it off musically & personally. upon doing some research i discovered for myself how talented Joanna Newsom was.
She appeared to traipse on stage. Making an indirect route towards what everyone knew her home would be for the evening's entertainment. She had an odd glow and presence and reminded me a lot of Alice (of in Wonderland fame). In a cute dress and long hair out and low she definitely did not have the appearance of a modern day rock star.
There was an odd hush of expectation as she prepared to start and finally began to attack the harp in a way i have never known before. Precise plucks and perfected pinches created a sound that echoed brilliantly throughout the recital hall and lulled you into a state of bliss and enchantment. despite getting my tickets a little late, i couldn't imagine being in a better position. angle-wise, i was looking through the harp and could see her entire body on the other side. it created a stunning illusion of her being stuck inside the harp and her hands moving manically in an attempt to get out. the way she played would make you believe that inside it was where she belonged.
not only could she play the harp but she pounded the piano numerous times as well just to keep you amazed at what she is capable of. her lyrics are utter genius and her compilations remarkable. i really have not known anyone quite like her in so many ways.
she was sweet and personable to the crowd and her speaking voice differed greatly to what she sounded like when she was singing. one may even say her voice sounded 'normal'. but as soon as the music started her highs got higher and lows, lower. drawling some words and skipping lightly through others. it is hard to describe what she sounds like. how she manages to match her descriptive, symbolic lyrics to the sounds of the harp is the best indication of her talent.
complemented ideally by a team of quirky, intellects. each at the top of their musical game be it on violin, banjo, guitar, drums or trombone it created a mellifluous blend of folk music.
She will never be touted as mainstream and may never get the audiences such brilliance deserves but, if you are interested I think you should give her a chance. She might really hit you.
I recommend... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CprS7irIVCE
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