Search - Beth Hirsch :: Early Days

Introspective, sparse, and hypnotic, Early Days is a promising first effort from this Tampa, Florida-born singer-songwriter. Not that she's a rookie: you may recognize her reedy voice from collaborations with French duo Air on their Moon Safari album, or from her duet with Wasis Diop on the Thomas Crown Affair soundtrack. However, this nine-track acoustic collage proves that Hirsch has her own clear vision. A diverse and richly textured collection of deeply personal meditations, Early Days meanders through varied subject matter like a graceful sleepwalker. "The More We Live," a sweetly modest ballad, shows jazz roots in its spare, expressive chords. "Mary the Angel" almost slips on artless lyrics that chart the tale of a girl's friendship with the family maid, but the melody is so unique and haunting that the song is saved. "Gabrielle," the album's best, traces the curve of a rocky relationship that has come full circle, with Hirsch's soaring vocals elegantly illustrating every line. --Sally Weinbach