Often called "melancholy" and "haunting", Trespassers William isn't for everybody. But for those seeking tales of unrequited-love and romantic bitterness, Trespassers William may be the perfect band. Their debut CD "Anchor... more »" is a mix of genuine moments of dreamy pop and delicate ballads. The lush, heartbreaking vocals of lead singer Anna-Lynne Williams and the simple, graceful, guitar work of guitarist Matt Brown combine to form the core of the band's sound. Described as "alternative-county" and "art-pop", it's no wonder that they've been compared to everything from Patsy Cline to the Cocteau Twins.« less
Often called "melancholy" and "haunting", Trespassers William isn't for everybody. But for those seeking tales of unrequited-love and romantic bitterness, Trespassers William may be the perfect band. Their debut CD "Anchor" is a mix of genuine moments of dreamy pop and delicate ballads. The lush, heartbreaking vocals of lead singer Anna-Lynne Williams and the simple, graceful, guitar work of guitarist Matt Brown combine to form the core of the band's sound. Described as "alternative-county" and "art-pop", it's no wonder that they've been compared to everything from Patsy Cline to the Cocteau Twins.
"Records like this remind me of why I try not to patronize the major labels. This independent record is stunning in respect to songwriting, production and the tasteful guitar playing of Matt Brown. Add to that the flowing vocals of Anna Williams, and you have a unique and intelligent set of songs probably done for a tiny fraction of what the majors would have spent. Ms. Wiiliams vocal style of controlled "cracking"(if you've ever sang, you know how hard this is to do) is reminiscent of Eillen Henry(Chimera) and certainly of the Cocteau Twins. I can see how her style could become a bit much but it does not bother me. "It's been a shame" has sleeper, non-commercial radio single written all over it. If you pride yourself on being ahead of the game in your music selections, you should be all over this. Very promising debut effort."
This album will open up the deepest of emotion!
D. Paschall | Seattle, WA | 12/21/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Moody and melodic, graceful and beautiful. I just got this CD in the mail and it is unbelievable. It will make you smile while the tears are running down your face. Matt's guitar playing is incredible. Each note seems to pluck at the heart strings. Anna-Lynne's voice is like the cry of angels. I highly recommend this CD. It will take you to a place of dreams!"
One of the most promising new bands going
paulwurld | Redondo Beach, CA | 04/05/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"What a fabulous debut! This is one of those truly great albums that stays with you. Most of my favorite recordings are either deeply emotional and touching or captivatingly melodic. Trespassers William manage to be both. The songwriting is uniformly strong (I like every track!) and even the most delicate and beautiful arrangements possess power thanks to earnest performances and moving lyrics that are filled with poetic imagery. Anna-Lynne Williams' vocals are amazing! I've heard her compared to Sarah McLachlan, Cranberries and Cocteau Twins, and I do hear some of that, but her voice is unique and, in my opinion, even more dynamic and emotionally direct than those other talented singers. To my ears she possesses the "special something" elements of many of music's great singers - like Patsy Cline and even John Lennon. Matt Brown's innovative and unpredictable guitar work also runs throughout the album - creating atmospheric sonic landscapes for Williams to stand in as she delivers her powerful vocal messages. People who like warm, direct emotional music with memorable melodies and innovative arrangements (like Daniel Lanois, Aimee Mann, some Fiona Apple and recent Neil Finn) should definitely buy this album!"
A brilliant debut
Tracy Grammer | Portland, OR | 01/02/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This is a beautiful debut album by one of Orange County (CA)'s fastest-rising bands. Especially impressive here are the tasteful production and mature performances by these young artists. Anna-Lynne's vocals move from a whisper to a wail without ever sounding histrionic or overdone, while Matt's guitar work is spare, mature, and creative. The percussion and accordion used on the album are inspired, allowing the music to fall somewhere between AAA pop and an edgier contemporary folk. I'd like to see the band tackle broader themes lyrically, but this is a light complaint. Cuts I just can't get enough of: "I Know", "My Eyes Were Closed" and "It's Been A Shame." Enjoy!"
Mesmerizing
Tracy Grammer | 04/27/2000
(4 out of 5 stars)
"An almost hypnotic affair. At once melancholy and uplifting. A must have for lovers of the heartbroken and poetic in music!"