4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
Let it live, Jan 1 2006
Does Leslie Feist sound familiar?
If she does, it's because of her musical resume, which includes Canadian indie-popsters Broken Social Scene, rapper Peaches and the Kings of Convenience. That sort of resume also makes you wonder: what will her second solo album, "Let It Die," sound like?
Well, this is what it sounds like: Stripped down, sensual pop music, with a little bit of jazz and trip-hop around the edges. It kicks off with only an acoustic guitar, before Feist jumps in like an orphaned torch singer who wants you to hear her. "Well it's time to begin/as the summer sets in/It's the scene you set for new lovers," she croons.
From there on, Feist doesn't even slow down. She ventures into cheery, catchy pop like "Mushaboom," sensual slow ballads, rippling trippy songs, and smooth torch songs. There's even -- surprisingly -- a cover of the Bee Gees' "Inside And Out," which she gives a funky spin, and a delicately catchy cover of Ron Sexsmith's underrated "Secret Heart."
Additionally, there are several bonus tracks, including a remix and a piano version of one song. But these aren't quite up to the level of the main body of music here. Pretty, yes, but not outstanding.
Feist's music isn't the sort that sets off fireworks and sets you raving about how much fun it is, quality be damned. "Let It Die" is the sort of album that is periodically hailed as being the real deal -- no studio tricks, only a dab of musical polish, and strong reliance on good songwriting and tunes rather than hooks. In other words, this is not a studio creation, but pure music.
But if the music is lovely, Feist is even better. Her vocals are front-and-center, and she makes good use of them. No "American Idol" vocal explosions, no hyperdramatics. Instead, Feist uses her vocals in all sorts of different ways -- breathy, husky, ethereal and coy, and and perfectly in sync with the music.
Not that Feist's voice doesn't mean that the music isn't also good. Because it is -- very good. Most of the instrumentation piano and acoustic guitar, with some additional touches -- snapping fingers, cowbells, a hint of synth and handclaps thrown in. It's very simple and pretty, no matter the style. Only a few songs, like the clunky "Lonely Lonely," fail to be captivating.
After a little-known solo debut and several supporting performances, Leslie Feist moves into the spotlight, and establishes herself with the beautiful "Let It Die." Beautiful soft pop.
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4 of 5 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
a fabulous album, Sep 30 2004
This album is so lo-fi it could be background music, but Feist's voice and personal lyrics make her music impossible to tune out. Let It Die isn't overproduced and the instrumentation is given a backing role as to not overpower Feist's voice. That's the strong point, as she switches easily between smoky drawls and sweet pop licks. It's a laid-back album with elements of jazz, disco, and pop. The only thing keeping me from giving Feist 5 stars is because her own songs are much better than the covers.
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