Every now and then, it's good to take a break from all the gimmicks of popular music. There is a time and a place for hip-hop beats, computerized sound effects, and ready-for-radio hooks, but sometimes a nice, stripped down folk album is a breath of fresh air.
Katy Bowser is a bit more progressive than most folk artists, but her music is about as stripped down as it gets. Longing, the 2001 release from the talented singer/songwriter, does not focus on the production, or on the image of the artist. Instead, the foundation of Longing is built on the set of strong songs.
Surprisingly cohesive, the overall sound of the album is based on acoustic guitars, a strong rhythmic section, and the intense, yet laid back performance by Katy Bowser. Vocally, Bowser is both confident and capable, and can hold her own against most other folk singers out there. Though she usually sounds fairly unique, Katy's vocals are not unlike those of Karin Bergquist (Over the Rhine).
As is often the case with folk music, the primary strength of Longing lies in the lyrics, all of which Katy Bowser penned herself. Thematically, they range from the spiritual ("Chamomile," "Idol Song") to smart relationship songs, such as "Michigan." Bowser's lyrics are not quite as deep as, say, the lyrics of U2 or Jennifer Knapp, but compared to most contemporary music, Longing is fairly challenging and poetic.
The biggest downside to Longing is the fact that the album is so slow and contemplative. This is not a bad thing for fans of such music, but the pacing makes the album less accessible, and even the most patient listeners may find themselves wishing for a more up tempo song every now and then.
Ready for a good, radio-friendly, gimmicky album of fun pop songs? Well, don't buy this CD. But for fans of slower, mellow, thoughtful music, Katy Bowser's Longing is definitely a winner.
Josh's Score: 3.5/5
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2002Reviewed by Curt McLeyThis is one review I'm not looking forward to writing. I'm just not sure I'm up to it. It's not an easy task describing music that is as inexplicable and eclectic as Katy Bowser's. I've been listening to Longing, Bowser's sophomore release for a couple of weeks now. Just as I get ready to pat myself on the back for coming up with what seems like an appropriate label for her music, the next cut…
