Fine, assured new work from Jen Kimball
William Merrill | San Antonio, TX United States | 02/19/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"(4 & 1/2) Solo CDs from Ms. Kimball are somewhat rare, so the pleasure of savoring this excellent new music is greater. I was a fan of The Story, Jennifer's original duo/group with Jonatha Brooke, and have continued to follow her work post-Story. Jonatha has been the breakout star of the two, but Jennifer has built a solid reputation in Northeast folk music circles. I've actually enjoyed listening to her new CD Oh Hear Us more than I did Ms. Brooke's last one. Jen's singing is as strong and true as ever (I love hearing her sing!), and her songwriting is also very sure-footed and self-assured. These songs are a gift to the listener, and I'm happy to accept! All were written or cowritten by her except one 1930's classic, "Wrap Your Troubles In Dreams." The production by longtime Kimball collaborator Duke Levine is just right for the material, forsaking heavy arrangements in favor of more tasteful, even slightly stark mixes of instruments better suited to the singer. This is Jennifer's best album yet - you should definitely check it out!"