I've been eagerly awaiting interesting material from the New Pornographers or one of their members. I mean, Twin Cinema is good, don't get me wrong. And I listen to the A.C. Newman album or the Destroyer album and I nod, understanding what they are trying to do. It's good music. But it's not breath-taking.

So, of course I approach Neko Case with hesitation, foolishly thinking that her membership in a group creates some sort of homogeneity amongst its members; I did not expect anything great, I've heard the praise before for the others.

Well... wow, I was wrong. This is one of those records where once you get a couple of songs in you're so thrilled you start it again. It's hard to go through it without wanting to go back at least once, only to relive one of those moments where Neko throws her voice into one of those powerful crooning swoops that define her distinct delivery. If the word distinct troubles you, don't let it. It's more a description of her skill, not some innate un-natural Kate Bush quality.

Anyway, if you see this, give it a shot. It's great.

i like it, but it seems to drag at the end.

for something more envigorating, i'd suggest Blacklisted. that album is still her strongest to-date.

I never get to the end. I always go back a few songs after I'm a few songs in.

Agreed.

Also, The Virginian has a strong one-two punch for opening tracks.

I LOVE the New Pornographers but haven't really heard much Neko. I should be getting the new cd from the library any day now. I heard one song on a talk show and it was excellent.