Orange Juice marks a new chapter in the musical life of Annie Quick. When the various members of Stickman Jones left the band to pursue other ventures, Annie was left to fend for herself. The result was a fresh sound, new songs, and an amazing album.
This album is jam-packed with creativity. From the interesting combinations of instruments and tones to the insightful and poetic lyrics, it is obvious that this is one woman who can think past the musical clichés of the day and create a masterpiece. Each song stands firmly on its own two feet, and yet the album comes together to form a cohesive work of art.
While Annie was the lead singer of Stickman Jones for many years, Annie's new project bears little resemblance to the folk stylings of that group. The singer-songwriter has picked up her electric guitar, pumped up the volume and written some solid rock songs. The expression is real, the lyrics are honest, the music is mature and, as always, Annie's voice is amazing: it's as though she has come into her own with this album.
Any review of this album would be remiss not to mention the lyrical content. It is obvious, even to the passive listener, that Annie is a poet. She crafts lyrics of such beauty that they don't need to be sung to be appreciated -- a reading would suffice. "Sweet, sweet on the tip of my tongue. Cool, cool as the day is long. Smooth as passion. Silken as desire." begins the song "Innocents." Lyrics such as these grace the album from start to finish. "Beautiful," the song from which the album title is taken, is another example of Annie's artistic weaving of words. It is written in the first person and is to be understood as the words of God. Often a song which takes this approach ends up sounding trite or disrespectful; this is one that does not fall victim to that disease. Instead what we are left with is a striking love song. "This is the way the morning creeps into your room. This is the sunshine on your orange juice. This is my way of telling you, that you are beautiful."
Not only are the lyrics and vocals a true wonder, but the arrangements are captivating. The instruments dance around each other like a well choreographed ballet. Each instrument plays its part to form a masterful foundation upon which the vocals are laid. The production and engineering are incredibly well done, and there are no complaints to be made concerning instruments being buried in the mix. Even the background vocals are balanced perfectly to complement, instead of detract from, the lead vocal track.
This album is a must have. It is amazing on many levels and will keep the listener interested and thinking for a long time to come, which is why the length of the album is a little disappointing. The music is so incredible that one only wishes there were more. Thankfully, this is an album that a person could listen to over and over again and not tire of. So get yourself a copy, stick it in the player, hit repeat, and enjoy!
5 tocks
Other coverage for this album
HM Magazine #98Reviewed by Doug Van PeltAre you sick of that new Sixpence album already? (Sometimes you just have to resist repeating an album incessantly for your own ears' sake!) If you can't get enough of that delicious sweet pop sound that only a female voice accompanying smart subtle and hypnotic hooks can provide, then latch onto this girl quick!The Phantom Tollbooth 2002Reviewed by Chris MacIntoshOriginally slated to be released as the fourth Stickman Jones album, because of personnel changes within the band Orange Juice has been released as the first solo project from band member Annie Quick. As with past releases this newest addition to the collection is top notch from start to finish. Back once again are the familiar faces of Jad Mintun, David Sacks, Rob Curto, and Mark Giacobbe. The…
